Nearly six months after demonstrations erupted originally sparked by a controversial social media ban and galvanized by broader frustrations over corruption, unemployment and entrenched political stagnation millions of Nepalis are heading to more than 23,000 polling stations across the Himalayan nation of about 30 million people.

Security has been stepped up nationwide, with more than 300,000 troops and police deployed to ensure peaceful voting, election officials said. Voters started lining up early Thursday morning as polls opened at 7 a.m. (local time) and will remain open until 5 p.m. Counting of votes begins shortly after ballots are collected.

About 19 million eligible voters are choosing 275 members of the House of Representatives165 through direct ballots and 110 through proportional representation from more than 3,400 candidates representing 65 political parties.

A Struggle Between Old Guard and New Voices

The election is widely seen as a referendum on Nepal’s future direction. Long‑dominant parties such as the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist‑Leninist) and the Nepali Congress face strong challenges from newer movements backed by younger voters.

One of the most notable contenders is Balendra Shah, a 35‑year‑old rapper‑turned‑politician and candidate for the Rastriya Swatantra Party, who has gained traction by promising reforms on corruption, job creation, and accountability key issues raised during last year’s protests.

Driven by Youth and Calls for Reform

Analysts say the youth vote could be decisive, with many young Nepalis hoping this poll will deliver long‑sought changes after months of unrest that claimed dozens of lives and briefly brought the country to a standstill. Campaign messaging has centered on tackling corruption, expanding economic opportunity and ending what many voters describe as entrenched political patronage.

Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has urged Nepalis to cast their ballots “without fear,” emphasizing that the vote is essential to charting the nation’s future.

What Comes Next?

Initial results from direct‑vote constituencies are expected within days, while distribution of proportional representation seats could take longer. Political commentators say the outcome will signal whether Nepal’s electorate especially its young citizens is ready to move beyond decades of political instability toward a new era of governance and reform.

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Hasina’s Awami League, which dominated Bangladeshi politics for 15 years, is now banned following the 2024 uprising that forced her from power. Many young activists who played a central role in ousting her government describe the upcoming election as the country’s first truly competitive contest since 2009, when Hasina began her extended tenure.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), long the primary opposition force, is widely expected to secure victory. However, a coalition led by the conservative Jamaat-e-Islami is mounting a strong challenge, reflecting shifting alliances and a reconfigured political landscape.

The vote represents a critical test for Bangladesh’s democratic institutions after years of political polarization, street protests, and accusations of electoral manipulation. Observers say turnout and the conduct of the election will be key indicators of whether the country is entering a new phase of political openness or merely a reshaped power struggle.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, the election is being viewed both domestically and internationally as a defining moment in Bangladesh’s post-Hasina era.

Karki’s name was put forward during talks between protest representatives and senior military officials in Kathmandu, as demonstrators seek a respected, neutral figure to guide Nepal through its current political crisis.

“Justice Karki is widely trusted and non-partisan. She represents the kind of stability the country needs right now,” said Rehan Raj Dangal, a spokesperson for the protest movement.

Political Turmoil and Demands for Change

The proposal comes just days after Prime Minister Oli stepped down in the face of nationwide protests that erupted after a controversial social media ban and were further fueled by allegations of corruption and economic mismanagement. At least 19 people died during clashes with police, and tensions remain high despite curfews and heavy security deployments.

The protesters’ call for Karki who led Nepal’s Supreme Court from 2016 to 2017 reflects a rising public demand for clean governance and institutional reform.

Military’s Role Unclear

So far, the Nepalese military has not confirmed whether it will endorse Karki’s appointment. Analysts say the military’s support will be crucial in stabilizing the transition and preventing further unrest.

Observers also note that while Karki is widely admired for her integrity, forming a transitional cabinet could be complicated by political party rivalries and constitutional limitations.

Who Is Sushila Karki?

• Former Chief Justice of Nepal (2016–2017)

• First and only woman to hold the role

• Known for: anti-corruption rulings, judicial independence, and reformist stance

• Retired from judiciary but remains a symbol of accountability and justice

What’s Next?

Protest leaders are expected to continue talks with both military and political figures in the coming days. International observers are urging calm and calling for a peaceful, civilian-led transition.