Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Vote for Peace: Nepal's Elections Amidst Turmoil

3/2/2026

49 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sushila Karki, Nepal's interim Prime Minister, urges citizens to vote in the March 5 elections to promote peace after protests that resulted in over 77 deaths.
The election will fill 275 seats in the House of Representatives, with 19 million registered voters, including 800,000 first-timers.
Analysts foresee no party winning an outright majority as K.P. Sharma Oli and Balen Shah of the centrist Rastriya Swatantra Party contend for power.

History

Historical Context

The Nepalese Civil War, which began on February 13, 1996, ended with the Comprehensive Peace Accord on November 21, 2006, after claiming over 17,000 lives. This accord established a federal democratic republic, enhancing political participation for 19 million voters. Sushila Karki's call for elections highlights ongoing efforts to stabilize governance in a nation still grappling with the aftermath of conflict and potential coalition challenges.

1 of 2

Story summary

Sushila Karki, Nepal's interim Prime Minister, urges citizens to vote in the March 5 elections to promote peace after protests that resulted in over 77 deaths.
The election will fill 275 seats in the House of Representatives, with 19 million registered voters, including 800,000 first-timers.
Analysts foresee no party winning an outright majority as K.P. Sharma Oli and Balen Shah of the centrist Rastriya Swatantra Party contend for power.

1 / 2