New Generation Voters Show Enthusiasm in Nepal Elections, Prioritizing Governance and Opportunity

Kathmandu. This time, the enthusiasm among the new generation, or 'Gen Z' voters, in the elections has been remarkable. Young people voting for the first time or those returning from abroad to participate in the polls view their vote as linked to the nation's future.

Sujani Shrestha, 25, who has been living in Canada for three years for studies, returned to Nepal to participate in this election. After casting her vote at Padmakanya Vidyashram in Dillibazar, she expressed excitement about being able to vote.

Shrestha emphasized that ending the compulsion for higher education and employment abroad, along with transparency, should be the priority for the upcoming government. "I have just returned from Canada specifically to vote this time," she said. "Transparency and good governance must be the first priorities for the government to be formed now. Due to excessive corruption in our country, young people are forced to go abroad. If quality education and employment opportunities are created within the country, most youth will stay in the homeland. We hope the new government will prioritize these issues."

Shrestha, a resident of Maitidevi Ghattakulo, has voted in previous elections as well. However, she stated that she feels more excited and hopeful about this time's experience. Shrestha mentioned that different political views were visible even within her family this time. "We discussed the agendas of parties and candidates within the family for a long time. I used my discretion while voting," she said.

Sarthak Sangraula, 19, participating in the elections for the first time, expressed excitement about being able to vote and felt it made her more responsible. After voting at Ratna Rajya Secondary School in Madhyabaneshwor, Kathmandu Constituency No. 1, she said, "It felt a bit awkward casting my vote for the first time, and there was confusion about whom to vote for. I expect my vote will be valued and will benefit the country." She mentioned discussing with her parents, but the final decision was made by her own discretion.

Similarly, Manjul Parajuli, 26, also appeared very excited while voting for the first time. "You can probably see it on my face, I am extremely excited," she said, smiling. Her expectation is that political stability will now be established in the country. "The wounds from recent political developments are still fresh. The elected leadership must learn lessons and provide stability to the country," she said.

Parajuli stressed that the legitimate demands of the youth generation must be met. Aakriti Sapkota, 24, who voted at the same polling station, also expressed hope regarding this election. "The candidates this time appear capable. Everyone has experienced what is right and what is wrong," she said. "We wish that what happened before is not repeated, and our future becomes better."

This is her second voting experience. While she made her decision based on family advice during her first vote, this time she stated that she made her decision after studying the agendas of the parties.