Nepal’s eastern district of Jhapa-5 has emerged as a pivotal battleground ahead of the March 5 elections, following deadly anti-corruption protests that toppled the government last September. Two prime ministerial candidates, former leader KP Sharma Oli and rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, are competing for the constituency. The outcome in this seat could determine who leads the country, making the small district a focus of national attention and political tension.
KP Sharma Oli, a four-time prime minister and Marxist leader, is confident of regaining power from a seat he has traditionally held. Oli emphasized that he is prepared for the challenge and dismissed doubts about his electability. Meanwhile, Shah, a 35-year-old former Kathmandu mayor, positions himself as the face of youth-driven political change, appealing to voters frustrated with economic stagnation and ageing leadership.
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The September protests, triggered by a brief social media ban, evolved into a broader movement against corruption and elite governance. Over two days, 77 people were killed, hundreds of buildings damaged, and public anger intensified. Analysts say this generational divide continues to influence voters, with younger residents eager to support new political forces while older constituents remain loyal to established leadership.
Jhapa’s electorate of 163,000 registered voters includes a mix of towns and agricultural settlements along the Indian border. Residents are closely following campaigns, often relying on social media and local interactions to make informed decisions. Young voters, especially, express hope that a new party can deliver reforms and address corruption, seeing Shah as a representative of modern political aspirations.
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Oli denies responsibility for police actions during the protests, blaming external “infiltrators” for the violence. Despite this, older voters in tea shops weigh his experience against uncertainty surrounding Shah’s vision. Some families are even experiencing generational debates over which candidate to support, reflecting the wider societal impact of the elections and recent unrest.
Both candidates are actively campaigning, with Oli visiting homes door-to-door, a departure from his usual style, and Shah leveraging social media to amplify his message. Political observers suggest that dissatisfaction with the previous government and the momentum of youth activism could significantly influence the vote. Jhapa-5 is now seen as a test of public trust and a barometer for Nepal’s political future.