Nepal will vote on Thursday to elect a new parliament. The election comes six months after anti-corruption protests killed at least 77 people and damaged several government buildings.

Nearly 19 million voters will decide who will form the next government. The vote will also determine who replaces the interim administration that took charge after the September 2025 uprising.

The election has turned into a major political test. On one side stand experienced political leaders. On the other side is a growing youth movement demanding change.

Protests Trigger Political Shift

The unrest began with a brief ban on social media. However, the issue quickly grew into nationwide protests led mainly by young people. Many protesters rallied under a loose Gen Z identity.

They expressed anger over corruption and the weak economy. As the demonstrations intensified, pressure mounted on the government and forced political changes.

Meanwhile, Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki urged people to participate in the vote peacefully. She asked citizens to vote freely and confidently.

“Vote without any fear.”

Authorities have deployed thousands of soldiers and police officers to polling centres to maintain security during the election.

Young Candidates Challenge Veteran Leaders

This election has created a strong contest between younger politicians and long-time leaders. Many young candidates promise economic revival and political reform. In contrast, senior leaders argue that their experience can ensure stability.

Sashi Gurung, a 33-year-old voter from Kathmandu, expressed strong optimism about the election.

“We are so hopeful,” he told AFP. “This election is not a normal election. This is going to be one of the changing points for Nepalis, for Nepal,” he added.

Key Battle in Southern Plains

Much attention has focused on the southern plains near the capital. Jhapa district has become a major political battleground.

Three prime ministerial contenders are contesting seats there.

Former prime minister KP Sharma Oli, 74, hopes to return to power. However, he faces two strong rivals. One is Balendra Shah, 35, a rapper-turned-politician. The other is Gagan Thapa, 49, the newly elected leader of the Nepali Congress party.

Shah has strongly appealed to voters to support political change. He has urged them to “ring the bell” of change, a symbol of breaking away from long-standing leadership.

Helicopters Deliver Ballots to Remote Areas

Nepal’s rugged mountains have created logistical challenges for election officials. Many polling locations sit in remote and snow-covered regions.

To solve this problem, authorities have used helicopters to deliver ballot materials. The aircraft will also collect ballots after voting ends.

Chief Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari explained that officials expect results for direct elections within 24 hours. However, counting proportional representation votes may take longer.

Thousands of Candidates in the Race

More than 3,400 candidates are contesting the election. They are competing for 165 directly elected seats in the 275-member House of Representatives.

Political parties will fill the remaining 110 seats through proportional representation.

As the country votes, many citizens believe the election could reshape Nepal’s political future. The results may either strengthen established leaders or open the door for a new generation in power.