Kathmandu, September 24 – President Ramchandra Poudel has issued an ordinance amending the Voter Registration Act, 2073, following widespread concerns that newly eligible voters, especially from the Gen Z generation, would be barred from casting their ballots in the upcoming polls.
The move comes in the wake of the dissolution of Parliament on 2082 Bhadra 27 at 11 p.m., after which the President announced Falgun 21, 2082 as the date for fresh elections. Under the existing provisions of Section 4(2)(2) of the Act, the announcement of an election date would effectively close the doors for new voter registration, preventing many young citizens who recently reached voting age from participating.
In recent days, Gen Z protestors had voiced fears that the law would disenfranchise them, arguing that a large section of first-time voters would be left without a say in shaping the nation’s future. Their demonstrations and social media campaigns drew significant public attention, highlighting the urgency of reform.
Responding to the pressure, the President—acting on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers—amended the restrictive clause through an ordinance, ensuring that voter registration will remain open even after the election date is declared. This change will allow newly eligible citizens to enlist themselves on the voters’ list in time for the upcoming polls.
The ordinance is being seen as a crucial step to uphold democratic inclusivity, expand youth participation, and maintain the legitimacy of the electoral process. The Election Commission is expected to soon publish detailed procedures for late-stage voter enrollment