Alliance speculation in key constituencies
In the final stretch before voting, speculation has grown about a possible understanding between the CPN-UML and the Nepali Communist Party (NCP) in constituencies where top leaders face tight races. Jhapa-5, where UML chair KP Sharma Oli is contesting against Rastriya Swatantra Party leader Balendra Shah and NCP candidate Ranjit Thapa, has drawn special attention. Dang-2, from where UML general secretary Shankar Pokharel is running, is also frequently mentioned.
Dahal has, however, stated that his party will go to the polls on its own strength and agenda. He has reportedly instructed his candidates not to rely on rumours of last-minute adjustments and to continue independent campaigning. NCP leaders say the question of post-election alliances is separate and will be decided after seat numbers become clear.
UML leaders acknowledge that informal talks on seat coordination have taken place with multiple parties but insist that nothing has been finalised. For voters, the mixed signals mean that local-level candidacies and symbols on the ballot paper are still the most reliable indicators of who is aligned with whom on election day.