Nepalese Diaspora Returns Home to Vote in 2026 Elections

Many Nepalese working abroad are coming back home to vote in the 2026 elections, hoping to make a real difference. From Malaysia and Bahrain to Oman and Qatar, the Nepalese diaspora is showing that every vote matters.

Voices from Abroad

Pappu Mahara, who has been working in Malaysia for over two years, said that discussions about Nepal’s elections are even more intense abroad than in his village in Mahottari. “Friends who can’t come home ask who we are voting for and remind us to support Balen. I even packed a sticker of him in my suitcase” he said. Mahara said unemployment, rising costs, and corruption are big problems, and he hopes the new government will think about the country, not just personal gain.

Family and Politics

Rishiram Khanal came home from Bahrain to support his son, Manish Khanal, a candidate from the RSP. Khanal, who has worked overseas for 15 years to support his children’s education, said, “It would have been better if we didn’t have to leave, but we migrated to give our children a better life. Now my son’s achievements inspire me even more.”

Manish Khanal, the second youngest candidate in the elections, has gained attention globally. His father hopes he will create jobs for youth in Nepal so fewer people have to leave the country.

Diaspora Engagement

Narendra Baral from Oman said the Gen Z movement has made Nepalese abroad more interested in politics. “The leadership change in the Nepali Congress, especially Gagan Thapa’s rise, has renewed our hope. New faces in elections give us confidence” he said.

Prajwal Poudel from Saudi Arabia decided to return home to vote. “Each vote counts. This is a once in a lifetime chance for change” he said.

Investing in Nepal’s Future

Bimal Subedi from Qatar said Nepalese working abroad want to use their skills and money to help the country. “Foreign jobs helped us rise out of poverty. Now we want equal access to education, healthcare, and jobs in Nepal” he said.

Sachin Thakur from Malaysia praised Balen’s work as Kathmandu mayor and hopes he can bring similar improvements across Nepal. “Nepal needs leaders who focus on basics like education and health. Real change is possible, and that’s why we are coming home to vote” he said.

A Vote for Hope

Nepalese abroad are returning with a clear message: they want honest leaders, better opportunities, and a country where youth can succeed without leaving. Their participation shows how one vote can help shape Nepal’s future.