From Poster Boy to People’s Choice: Kulman in Kathmandu-3

It is no surprise that Kulman Ghising, who freed the country from 18-hour load-shedding, became very popular among the general public and also entered politics by forming a party. His political ambition was evident for some time.

Even during the previous general elections, there was speculation that he might contest on the Maoist Centre ticket. At one point, the party even used Kulman's photo on its election campaign poster alongside Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and leader Janardan Sharma. The poster, shared on Prachanda's Facebook page, had the slogan: “Ending load-shedding is one leap, now it’s time for free electricity”, along with “Journey from darkness to light”.

However, at that time, Kulman was criticized for being used as a “poster boy” while working in the capacity of Executive Director of the NEA. His photo was later removed. The constituency discussed for him then was Kathmandu-3.

Even after quitting the NEA, according to sources close to Kulman, he held discussions with various political parties about joining politics and made it clear that his aim was to get the Kathmandu-3 ticket for himself. That proves that he has long thought this constituency suitable for him.

Kulman Ghising's political entry has long ceased to be a subject of speculation. As a Minister for Energy, Physical Infrastructure and Urban Development in the caretaker government, he has announced an independent party, the Ujyaalo Nepal Party, to contest the elections on 21st Falgun with “Chim” as the election symbol of the party.

The question now is whether Kulman still wants to contest from Kathmandu-3 or is considering a different constituency. Besides Kathmandu-3, his home district Ramechhap is also a possible constituency, as many assume that he might contest from his birthplace. Kulman is well-known among the younger urban population. During the Jan–G movement on 23rd and 24th Bhadra, youth debates on platforms like Discord consistently listed him as a prominent figure, ranking him third after Balen and Sushila. Party leaders believe this popularity among the youth further strengthens his chances in Kathmandu-3.

Considering these three factors, sources close to him say, it is almost certain that Kulman will contest from Kathmandu-3 in the upcoming elections. Other candidates from the Ujyaalo Nepal Party are yet to be finalized. The party has a 51-member central committee, comprised of people who do not know each other. While Kulman has coordinated among them, final decisions regarding the selection of candidates for which constituencies have yet to be made.