Nepal Holds General Election Amid Tight Security and High Hopes

Nepal is conducting a pivotal general election, the first since last year's protests led to a government change. With over 18 million eligible voters, the election is crucial for restoring constitutional order. Voter turnout is reported at 18% by noon, with polling taking place across 165 constituencies under tight security. The Election Commission has confirmed a peaceful voting environment, despite minor incidents. Key political figures, including Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, have cast their votes, highlighting the importance of public participation in this democratic exercise. As the nation looks forward to the results, the election represents a significant moment in Nepal's political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 13:06 IST

Polling Day in Nepal

On Thursday morning, citizens of Nepal flocked to polling stations across all 165 constituencies to participate in a significant general election, all under strict security measures.

This election marks the first since the previous government led by K P Sharma Oli was ousted following a violent protest by the younger generation last year.

As of noon, the Election Commission reported a voter turnout of approximately 18%, with around 1.93 million individuals having cast their votes.

Over 18.9 million eligible voters are set to elect representatives for the 275-member House of Representatives.

To facilitate the voting process, the government declared a three-day public holiday starting Wednesday.

Voting commenced at 7 am and will conclude at 5 pm, with counting of the votes to begin immediately after the ballot boxes are collected.

Election Commission spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai confirmed that voting started on time across all regions, including the southern plains, hilly areas, and mountainous regions.

He noted that the election is taking place in a peaceful atmosphere throughout the nation.

According to the Election Commission, there are 10,967 polling booths and 23,112 polling centers nationwide, with participation from 65 political parties.

A total of 3,406 candidates are contesting for 165 seats using the first-past-the-post system, while 3,135 candidates are competing for 110 seats through proportional representation.

Acting Election Commissioner Ram Prasad Bhandari addressed the media before the polls, stating that all necessary preparations had been finalized and encouraged voters to engage actively in this democratic process.

Reports indicate that voting is proceeding smoothly across the country, with only minor incidents occurring at a few locations, as noted by Election Commissioner Sagun Shumsher Rana.

Nepal Police confirmed that aside from minor disputes at some polling stations, there have been no significant issues.

In Kathmandu, the weather was clear, and voters were seen eagerly lining up to cast their ballots.

Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki voted in the Kathmandu-5 constituency at Dhapasi, expressing her satisfaction with the public's participation in the election.

Nepali Congress president Gagan Thapa also cast his vote in the Kathmandu-4 constituency in Maitidevi, emphasizing the importance of this election in restoring the Constitution.