Nepal’s Nationwide Election Results Announced
Nepal’s nationwide election for the House of Representatives took place on March 5, 2026, with approximately 19 million eligible voters, including around 800,000 first-time voters. Polling stations were open from 07:00 to 17:00 GMT, and voter turnout was estimated at 60%.
This election is particularly significant as it is the first national vote since the Gen-Z protests in September 2025, which led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the formation of an interim government. The House of Representatives consists of 275 members, with 165 elected through first-past-the-post and 110 through proportional representation.
The Election Commission plans to announce results for the 165 first-past-the-post seats within 24 hours after polls close, while complete results may take up to a week to be finalized. The Rastriya Swatantra Party is considered a front runner in this election, with Balendra Shah as its prime ministerial candidate.
Voter sentiments were high, as expressed by Luniva, a voter who stated, “I came to vote mainly because of the protest and so many people gave their lives in the hope of a change, in hope of seeing a better Nepal.” This sentiment reflects the aspirations of the youth that were vocalized during the protests.
Balendra Shah remarked, “Because of you, democracy has won today,” emphasizing the importance of public participation in the electoral process. Sushila Karki, a prominent figure in the election, urged voters to engage, stating, “The beauty of democracy is people’s participation. I would like to urge all voters to reach their polling booths and cast their ballots.”
Political analysts have noted that this election is critical to address the aspirations of the youths expressed during the Gen-Z protests, as highlighted by Puranjan Acharya, who stated, “The election is critical to address the aspirations of the youths expressed during the Gen Z protests.”
As the results begin to emerge, the political landscape in Nepal is poised for significant changes. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final outcomes and the implications for the future government.
