Aftermath Of Election

The much-awaited general election of 2026 has also been done and dusted in Nepal. In the run-up to the poll, the atmosphere was very noteworthy, with election campaigns in full swing and some political leaders travelling across the country, pressing voters to vote for their candidates, while others limited their campaigns to their own constituencies, owing to a closed, door-to-door approach that used to be highly unlikely in the past.

Furthermore, the deployed election security police, along with the national security force, made firm efforts in facilitating the conduction of timely elections without mayhem and uproar, which is praiseworthy on their part. Moreover, an equally commendable role was played by the Sushila Karki-led government in enabling the creation of a conducive environment required for the election's success. In the absence of an action-oriented government, it would have been a herculean task for only the state machinery to conduct the election, so they deserve a heap of praise.

It goes without saying that the tried and tested political forces that used to rule the roost in the Nepali political landscape were seemingly perturbed in the lead-up to the election with the emergence of relatively new political parties that have claimed themselves to be an alternative force. Be it Balendra Saha or Ravi Lamichhane, there was an unsettling fear on the faces of octogenarian leaders hoping to dissuade the public from supporting newer political forces. 

Irrespective of the ultimate outcomes, political leaders, both new and old, cannot throw caution to the wind. Because of the lackadaisical nature of the previous Oli-led government, the country saw unprecedented catastrophic damage to its properties led by furious youth. In order to avoid falling off the wagon, politicians this time should be on their toes to help give impetus to the development and prosperity of the country.

Many statespersons, before the election, brazenly announced their respective political manifestos, assuring the public that the mentioned agendas would be their topmost priority. These ranged from free health insurance schemes to massive employment opportunities. Such selected significant areas are undoubtedly of great value; however, invariably, they have been merely lip service for a long time—a tactic employed by politicians to manoeuvre and earn votes. 

But come the post-election, such agendas are rarely looked at or talked about. It is one of the primary reasons behind people's attenuating trust towards established political forces. Come what may, such political agendas upon which votes were received should be timely and effectively implemented.

In addition, the lack of meaningful employment opportunities back home has pushed many overseas, wasting talent and perpetuating the long-standing brain drain situation. If resources available within the periphery of the nation are diligently utilised, with a focus on modernising the agricultural sector through government intervention, many youths will be drawn into this evergreen industry, which will ultimately help them sustain their livelihood. 

The quality of education and the curriculum have also been topics of discussion. Likewise, manufacturing industries are awaiting budgets and necessary infrastructure. Thus, the to-be government must create an investment-friendly climate for established industries to continue functioning and for additional ones to thrive. 

To sum it up, all things said and done, the soon-to-be Prime Minister has to take the bull by the horns, as the elephant in the room is the erosion of public trust in government. There is no room for corruption and misgovernance this time.