Kathmandu: Nepal’s Gen-Z will certainly have a greater say in the running of the country. On Thursday, the country’s interim prime minister Sushila Karki announced lowering of the voting age to 16.
Through this, Nepal joins only a handful of countries in the world where the voting age is 16. It will also be the only country in Asia where youngsters will play an important role in electing their leaders.
Elections are slated to be held in Nepal in March 2026.
The move came in response to the recent Gen-Z protests that resulted in loss to life and property and the overthrow of the government in power.
The amendment to the Voter Roll Act, 2017, was promulgated by president of Nepal Ram Chandra Paudel through an ordinance issued under Article 114(1) of the Constitution, based on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers. The change aligns the voter registration framework with the general elections scheduled for March 2026.
Karki, meanwhile, in her first televised address to the nation since assuming office on September 12, said the government was committed to holding “free, fair and fear-free” elections. She noted that consultations with the Election Commission have already begun on manpower, security, budget and other arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of polls.
“I call on all Nepali sisters and brothers to participate enthusiastically in the upcoming elections and select qualified representatives who can embody the aspirations of the youth for change,” Karki said, urging political parties, civil society, the media and all stakeholders to work together to create a peaceful and conducive environment for voting.
She also pledged stern action against those responsible for the deaths of 74 people, including students, during the recent Gen-Z protests that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
On the diplomatic front, Karki expressed gratitude to Nepal’s neighbours, particularly India, for their support during the political transition. She revealed that she had a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who extended his greetings on Nepal’s National Day and conveyed best wishes for the country’s democratic journey.
Her appointment earlier this month followed weeks of turmoil after mass youth-led demonstrations over corruption and restrictions on social media forced Oli’s resignation. By lowering the voting age, her government has made a historic concession to Nepal’s younger generation, who will play a decisive role in shaping the country’s next political chapter.
