Nepal Sets Next Election Date for March 5, 2026: Can the Vote Bring Peace After Unrest?

Kathmandu, September 14, 2025 — Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel has announced that the country will hold its next parliamentary elections on March 5, 2026. The official notice came from the President’s Office on Saturday.

The decision came after one of the most difficult weeks the country has faced in recent years. Violent protests spread across Kathmandu and other cities. The protests left at least 51 people dead and more than 1,300 injured. The unrest was mainly driven by young people who were angry at corruption, unemployment, and most recently, a sudden ban on social media platforms.

Why the election date matters

The announcement of the March 5 vote is not only about choosing a new parliament. It is also a test for Nepal’s democracy. The country has faced political instability for many years. Governments often fall before completing their full term.

By fixing a date, the President’s Office has given a timeline for political parties, the interim government, and the people. Now, the big question is whether the election will be fair, peaceful, and trusted by citizens.

Background of the protests

The protests that shook Nepal started earlier this month. The government blocked popular social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Officials said these platforms had not followed registration rules. But for young citizens, this felt like a direct attack on their freedom of speech.

Thousands of students and activists marched in the streets. The demonstrations grew larger every day. The police used force, including tear gas and rubber bullets. Sadly, the clashes turned deadly. Within days, dozens of lives were lost, and hospitals were full of the injured.

But the social media ban was not the only issue. For years, Nepali youths have been frustrated by limited job opportunities. Many people feel that leaders care more about their power than the public. Corruption scandals have damaged trust in the government. The protests became a way for citizens to express all these frustrations at once.

Political changes after the violence

The violent scenes forced big political changes. Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli resigned after losing support. His resignation was seen as necessary to calm the situation.

President Paudel then appointed Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister. Karki is Nepal’s former Chief Justice and the first woman to serve as Prime Minister. She is respected for her honesty and strong stance against corruption. Many people see her as a neutral figure who can guide the country until elections are held.

Parliament was also dissolved, on the recommendation of the new interim government. This cleared the way for fresh elections.

What will happen on March 5, 2026

On that day, Nepalese citizens will vote for the House of Representatives, the lower house of the federal parliament. The House plays a central role in making laws and choosing the government.

The interim government must prepare everything for the polls. This includes ensuring security, creating fair rules for campaigning, and working with the Election Commission. The task is not easy, because the country is still tense after the protests.

International observers may also be invited to monitor the vote. That could help to boost confidence among citizens who fear election fraud or manipulation.

Reactions from political parties

Not everyone is happy with the decision to dissolve parliament. The chief whips of eight political parties, including the Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, and Maoist Centre, issued a joint statement. They said that ending the parliament early was against democratic principles. They warned that it could harm Nepal’s political stability further.

Still, many ordinary citizens welcomed the announcement of elections. People hope that the upcoming vote will bring change and accountability. The families of those killed in protests are demanding justice. Civil society groups are calling for stronger laws against corruption and misuse of power.

Challenges before the vote

Even though the election date is fixed, there are many challenges:

1. Restoring peace: The government must rebuild trust with young people. Curfews have been lifted, but anger and grief are still present.
2. Security: Ensuring the safety of voters and candidates will be critical. No one wants violence on election day.
3. Law and order: The constitution and election laws will be tested. The Election Commission must act independently.
4. Political unity: Parties must prepare for campaigns, but also avoid making the situation worse. Rivalries can easily spark fresh protests.
5. Public confidence: Many citizens feel disconnected from politics. Winning back their trust is the biggest challenge of all.

The role of the interim Prime Minister

All eyes are now on Sushila Karki. She has a tough job. She must remain neutral, control corruption, and prepare the country for the vote. Her reputation as a strict and honest judge gives some hope. But critics worry that powerful political groups may still interfere.

If Karki succeeds, she will be remembered as the leader who guided Nepal through one of its hardest times. If she fails, the country could face more unrest.

What the future holds

The road to March 5, 2026, is not simple. The memory of the recent violence is fresh. Families are mourning their loved ones. Youth are restless and demanding reforms. Political leaders are divided.

Yet, the election also offers a chance. It can give Nepal a fresh start. A peaceful and fair vote could open the door for stronger democracy, better governance, and new opportunities for young people.

For now, Nepal waits. The people wait to see if the leaders will listen. The world also watches closely. On March 5, 2026, the country will face a key test. The outcome will shape Nepal’s future for many years to come.