KATHMANDU: As the parliamentary elections approach, candidates are increasingly turning to attention-grabbing antics to woo voters. From milking cows and plowing fields to helping with traditional chores, viral clips of candidates performing such stunts are circulating widely on social media. While these attention-seeker tactics are not new, their reach has expanded with the growing influence of online platforms.
Journalist-turned-candidate Rishi Dhamala, representing the Janata Party in Rautahat-4, has emerged as one of the most viral figures. Videos show him cycling, cooking jalebis, chopping wood, and assisting farmers in various tasks. Supporters view this as an effort to connect with voters, while critics call it showy campaigning designed to attract attention.
In Gorkha-1, Sudan Gurung of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has drawn attention for carrying heavy loads uphill and performing other labor-intensive acts. Similarly, Sagar Dhakal from Gulmi, also a Rastriya Swatantra Party candidate, has made headlines for his blunt and provocative statements during campaigning, challenging voters on politicians’ past records and accomplishments.
While these activities effectively draw public attention, observers warn that politics is more than viral stunts. Meaningful campaigns require clear policies, vision, and goals. Mainstream parties like Nepali Congress, CPN-UML, and the Nepali Communist Party have largely avoided such theatrics, focusing instead on their policy platforms. Whether voters are swayed by these flashy campaigns or wait for substantive discussion remains to be seen as elections on March 5 approach.
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