Kathmandu — Former Prime Minister and Nepal Samajbadi Party (New Force) leader Dr. Baburam Bhattarai has proposed lowering the minimum age requirement to become a member of Nepal’s Federal Parliament.
Bhattarai said the time has come for a new generation to take the lead in shaping the country’s policies. He argued that the current 25-year age limit for parliamentary candidacy prevents young people from directly engaging in national decision-making and should be revised.
Speaking at an event on Thursday, Bhattarai said, “It’s time for the younger generation to step forward and lead the nation. The legal age requirement of 25 years to contest parliamentary elections should be reduced. In many countries, the threshold is 21 or even 18 years. We should adopt such progressive standards.”
Legal experts note that the age requirement is enshrined in the Constitution of Nepal, not in general election law, making an immediate change through an ordinance impossible. Article 87 of the Constitution states that a person must be 25 years old to become a member of the House of Representatives and 35 years old for the National Assembly. Therefore, any change would require a constitutional amendment — a process that cannot proceed in the absence of a functioning House of Representatives.
Election and Constitutional Safeguards
Bhattarai also emphasized the importance of holding the next general election — scheduled for March 5 (Fagun 21) — on time, warning that delays could derail the Constitution itself.
“If elections are not held, the Constitution risks being derailed,” he said. “We have a half-filled glass — we must protect it rather than overturn it. Some groups are trying to topple even that half glass. We must stay alert and ensure the democratic process continues.”
He further urged the government to remain accountable to Generation Z and to introduce a system allowing Nepalis living abroad to cast their votes.
Broader Significance
Bhattarai’s proposal has sparked nationwide debate. Supporters see it as an inclusive and forward-looking idea that could bring young energy into national politics, while critics note that such a change cannot be implemented without constitutional amendment.
Regardless of feasibility, his remarks highlight a growing sentiment that Nepal must open pathways for youth leadership and advance toward generational transformation in governance.
