KATHMANDU, Jan 2: The closed Proportional Representation (PR) lists submitted by political parties for the upcoming March 5 elections—including the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP)—have sparked widespread debate and public outrage. Critics argue that the lists have been misused, with slots going to “nepo babies, celebrities, and viral faces,” raising questions about the credibility and inclusiveness of Nepal’s PR system.
The controversy has placed the spotlight on major political parties and their nomination strategies. While the PR system was designed to ensure broad representation—covering marginalised communities, women, and minorities—many voters feel it has instead become a tool for political patronage. In response to the backlash, RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane has pledged to revise his party’s list, signalling sensitivity to public opinion.
UNICEF estimates over 1,500 babies will be born in Nepal on New...
This situation has also raised a procedural question: can political parties amend their PR lists once submitted to the Election Commission (EC)?
The EC has clarified that parties cannot make revisions at their discretion. “A new name can only be added after the concerned candidate formally withdraws their candidacy by submitting an application to the Commission,” said Yagya Prasad Bhattarai, head of the EC’s Political Parties Section.
However, Bhattarai explained that the EC may direct parties to make corrections during the verification process if technical errors are found, such as missing inclusivity quotas, incomplete citizenship documents, or insufficient proof for disability representation. In such cases, the Commission formally notifies the party to address the shortcomings before final approval.
The debate over the PR lists has reignited broader concerns about transparency and fairness in Nepal’s electoral system. While parties are eager to secure influential or popular candidates, voters and civil society groups are increasingly calling for the system to reflect its intended purpose: a genuine, inclusive representation of the country’s diverse population.
As election day approaches, the handling of these lists will remain under close scrutiny, with political parties facing growing pressure to balance strategic nominations with accountability to voters.
