Nepal’s Gen Z threw out old parties. Will it vote for them in key election?

Al Jazeera

March 3, 2026

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Nepal’s Gen Z is challenging the dominance of traditional political parties ahead of a pivotal parliamentary election on March 5. Last year’s protests, sparked by a social media ban and driven by young activists, reflected widespread disillusionment with the country’s entrenched political elite, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the formation of an interim government. The movement, which gained momentum through platforms like Discord, highlighted frustration over corruption, economic stagnation, and the unresponsiveness of established parties such as the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist) and the Nepali Congress. The protests, which left at least 77 people dead, marked a turning point in Nepal’s political landscape. Young activists like Rajesh Chand and Rakshya Bam are leading a movement that shifts focus away from party labels to broader issues like corruption and governance. While some parties, including the Nepali Congress, have attempted to redeem themselves by changing leadership and adopting reformist rhetoric, many young voters remain skeptical. “We need clear explanations about their agenda,” said Bam, emphasizing that even established parties must align with the movement’s goals to win support. The election has also become a referendum on democracy, with Oli’s CPN-UML framing it as a battle to protect democratic principles. However, critics argue that the party’s hubris during last year’s uprising severely damaged its credibility. With 30% of voters under 40, the outcome hinges on whether traditional parties can convince younger generations they have truly reformed or if newer, reform-oriented groups will gain traction. The election is not just about political renewal but also about whether Nepal’s youth can drive meaningful change in a system long dominated by older leaders. This shift underscores a global trend of Gen Z challenging outdated political systems and demanding greater accountability. In Nepal, the stakes are high as voters

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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/3/2026