KATHMANDU: A wave of enthusiasm among the new generation of voters, or ‘Gen Z,’ has been evident in this House of Representatives election, with many first-time voters or returning expatriates emphasizing the importance of shaping the country’s future.
Sujani Shrestha, 25, who has been living in Canada for studies for the past three years, returned to Nepal specifically to vote. After casting her ballot at Padmakanya Vidyashram in Dillibazar, she told RSS she was thrilled to participate.
Shrestha stressed that the upcoming government must prioritize ending the compulsion for young people to go abroad for higher education and employment, and ensure transparency and good governance.
“Due to widespread corruption in our country, young people are forced to go abroad. If quality education and employment opportunities are created within the country, most young people will stay at home. I hope the government that will be formed now will prioritize these issues,” she said.
A resident of Maitidevi Ghattekulo, Shrestha has voted in previous elections but said she felt more enthusiastic and optimistic this time. Even within her family, political opinions varied, and she ultimately exercised her own discretion.
“We discussed the party and candidates’ agenda within the family for a long time, but I used my discretion in voting,” she added.
Similarly, 19-year-old Sarthak Sangraula, a first-time voter at Ratna Rajya Secondary School in Madhya Baneshwar, Kathmandu-1, expressed excitement and a sense of responsibility. “It felt a bit difficult to vote for the first time, and I was unsure about whom to vote for. I hope my vote will be valued and will be good for the country,” he said. Although he consulted his parents, his final choice was his own.
Manjul Parajuli, 26, also showed visible excitement while voting for the first time. “I think it can be seen on my face—I am very excited. The wounds from recent political events are still fresh. Now the elected leadership must learn a lesson and provide stability to the country,” he said with a smile. Parajuli emphasized that the legitimate demands of Gen Z must now be addressed.
Twenty-four-year-old Aakriti Sapkota, who voted at the same polling center, expressed optimism for the election. “The candidates this time seem capable. Everyone has already experienced what is right and what is wrong. We hope that what happened before will not be repeated and that our future will be better,” she said. This is her second voting experience; while her first vote was guided by family advice, this time she made her decision after studying the parties’ agendas.
Across the country, Gen Z voters are sending a clear message: they expect transparency, stability, and opportunities at home, hoping the elected leadership will finally prioritize their future.
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