Democracy’s Reset Moment

As the nation votes today to elect a new House of Representatives (HoR), Nepal stands at a critical juncture. The snap election, announced 22 months ahead of schedule following the Gen Z protest on September 8 and 9, 2025 that ousted Prime Minister KP Oli-led government from power represents more than a routine democratic exercise. It is an opportunity to return the country firmly to the constitutional path and restore political stability. Prime Minister Sushila Karki, assuming office amid uncertainty following the Gen Z protest, aptly described the election as a “national ritual” and the only viable means to steer the country towards stability and development. Her call for all sides to recognise the sensitivity of the situation and work collectively to ensure a successful election underscores the gravity of the moment. After months of uncertainty, the ballot is once again the instrument through which the sovereign people will determine the nation’s direction. Across the country, 18.9 million registered voters, along with over 186,000 temporary voters, are casting their ballots at 10,967 polling stations and 23,112 polling centres. The sheer scale of participation — supported by tens of thousands of security personnel and civil servants — reflects a national commitment to constitutional order. From Madhesh Province, with the highest number of polling sites, to Karnali, with the lowest, citizens in every corner of the country are exercising their democratic rights. A total of 275 members will be elected to the HoR — 165 under the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system and 110 under Proportional Representation (PR). More than 6,500 candidates, including a significant number of women and independents, are contesting under various banners. The elected HoR members will not only shape national policy for the next five years but also elect the Prime Minister, thus determining the executive leadership of the country.