Nepal Election 2026: Gen-Z Uprising Threatens Established Political Order

Nepal's political landscape is bracing for a seismic shift as the March 5 national election looms, with Balen Shah's Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) spearheading a formidable "Gen-Z Uprising" against the long-dominant CPN-UML and Nepali Congress. This election marks a critical juncture, testing the resilience of traditional powerhouses against a wave of youth-driven discontent and a demand for systemic change. Analysts predict a highly fragmented mandate, potentially forcing unprecedented coalition permutations as established parties struggle to retain their strongholds amidst the RSP's surge. The RSP's populist appeal, particularly among first-time voters and urban youth, has injected an unpredictable element, challenging the conventional wisdom of Nepali electoral politics. The outcome will not only define the next government but also signify a potential re-calibration of political power and influence in the Himalayan nation.

• Gen-Z-led RSP poised to disrupt Nepal's traditional political landscape in upcoming March 5 election.