Kathmandu, Nepal — Millions of voters across Nepal headed to polling stations on Thursday as the country conducted a crucial nationwide general election, marking the first major vote since a wave of youth-led protests forced the previous government from power last year. Security personnel were deployed across cities and rural regions to ensure peaceful voting as citizens lined up early in the morning to cast their ballots.
According to Nepal’s Election Commission, nearly 18.9 million eligible voters are expected to participate in the election to choose members of the 275-seat House of Representatives, the lower house of the federal parliament. Of these seats, 165 members will be elected through direct voting, while the remaining 110 seats will be filled through proportional representation based on party votes.
Polling stations opened early in the morning and are scheduled to remain open until evening, with vote counting expected to begin shortly after the polls close. Preliminary results are likely to be announced over the weekend. Authorities reported that voting has largely been peaceful so far, with strong turnout in major cities including Kathmandu.
The election is being closely watched as it could reshape Nepal’s political landscape. Many young voters are seeking political reforms, economic opportunities, and greater accountability from leaders following months of political unrest and public demonstrations.
Political analysts say the results will determine the country’s next government and could significantly influence Nepal’s future policy direction and stability in the coming years, news as reported.
