Nepal is gearing up for a pivotal general election on March 5, following the collapse of the previous government after widespread protests. The former Prime Minister, K P Sharma Oli, along with other experienced leaders, are defending their positions against a wave of support for new political parties championed by the Z generation. This election is seen as a critical juncture where the discontent of the youth, who are seeking political reform, could reshape the parliamentary landscape against traditional party powerhouses.

Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, Nepal's political scene has been dominated by three major parties: the Nepali Congress, the Communist Party of Nepal (UML), and the Maoist Centre. While these parties have cyclically formed coalitions, they have been criticized for perpetuating corruption and failing to foster economic growth, leading to rising unemployment and emigration among the youth. The recent unrest was triggered by the government's regulatory crackdown on social media, igniting a series of protests that resulted in significant violence and loss of life, further eroding trust in established politicians and paving the way for a potential shift in power.

In this election, the emergence of new political parties that appeal to the youth, including candidates such as popular rappers, signal a desire for change among the younger populace, who constitute a significant portion of the electorate. As the polls approach, the focus will be on whether these new entities can successfully challenge the entrenched power of the traditional parties, potentially leading to a transformative year for Nepalese politics.