Nepal Election Results: March 2026
Nepal Election Results: March 2026
Nepal’s nationwide election for the House of Representatives took place on March 5, 2026, marking a crucial moment for the country’s democracy following significant political unrest. This election was the first national vote since the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, which occurred after widespread protests in September 2025.
Polling stations were open from 07:00 to 17:00 GMT, and approximately 19 million Nepalis were eligible to vote, including around 800,000 first-time voters. The estimated voter turnout for this election was 60%, slightly lower than the 61% turnout recorded in the previous general election in 2022.
The House of Representatives consists of 275 members, with 165 elected through first-past-the-post and 110 through proportional representation. The Election Commission has indicated that results for the first-past-the-post seats will be announced within 24 hours after the polls closed.
The election was conducted peacefully, with only a few isolated incidents reported. This election is seen as a critical test of Nepal’s democracy, particularly in light of the protests that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Oli and the formation of an interim government.
Balendra Shah, the prime ministerial candidate for the Rastriya Swatantra Party, expressed optimism about the election’s outcome, stating, “Because of you, democracy has won today.” Meanwhile, first-time voter Luniva remarked, “I came to vote mainly because of the protest and so many people gave their lives in the hope of a change, in hope of seeing a better Nepal.”
Puranjan Acharya emphasized the importance of this election, noting, “The election is critical to address the aspirations of the youths expressed during the Gen Z protests.” Sushila Karki, a prominent figure in the electoral process, urged voters to participate, saying, “The beauty of democracy is people’s participation. I would like to urge all voters to reach their polling booths and cast their ballots.”
As the nation awaits the election results, the atmosphere remains charged with anticipation and hope for a renewed commitment to democratic values in Nepal.
