As Nepal gears up for its upcoming elections on Baishakh 11th, a significant portion of the Nepali diaspora community is facing a familiar situation: being unable to participate in the voting process. This reality, coupled with the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global travel, has left many Nepalis abroad feeling a complex mix of emotions, ranging from disappointment to resigned acceptance.
Many Nepalis living overseas express a strong desire to exercise their right to vote and contribute to the shaping of Nepal's future. The Nepali Times reports that discussions on social media platforms and among diaspora organizations frequently revolve around the logistical challenges of voting from abroad, including issues related to voter registration, postal voting, and the overall practicality of the election commission's processes. Concerns over the accessibility of voting information and the potential for voter disenfranchisement are also prevalent.
The lack of a streamlined process for overseas voting has been a long-standing issue. The Election Commission had previously discussed various options, including facilitating voting through Nepali embassies and consulates, and implementing postal voting systems. However, as the latest election approaches, these efforts have not fully materialized, leading to continued frustration among the diaspora community. The reasons for this slow progress vary, including logistical hurdles, cost considerations, and limitations imposed by existing election laws.
One contributing factor is the complex nature of implementing overseas voting, requiring careful international agreements and resource allocation. As political scientist Dr. Sanjeeb Bhattarai explains to the Nepali Times, “While there is a strong sentiment towards participation, the practicalities are immense. Ensuring secure and transparent voting in every country where Nepalis reside is a significant challenge.” His sentiments probably reflect the fact that the election commission is tasked with ensuring an effective and fair election.
The impact of this inability to vote extends beyond mere disenfranchisement. It means that the voices and perspectives of millions of Nepalis, who may have unique insights and experiences from living abroad, are not fully represented in the political discourse. This arguably could affect policy making in the long run.
For the Nepali diaspora, the upcoming elections are not just about choosing leaders; they are a symbolic representation of their connection to their homeland. The ability to vote is often seen as a fundamental right, and its absence can create a feeling of detachment and exclusion. The diaspora community continues to contribute significantly to Nepal's economy through remittances and provide cultural capital in other ways, making their political voice more deserving.
Therefore, even as they are unable to participate directly in the polls, Nepalis abroad are making efforts to engage with the debates during the elections. They share their opinions via social media and are calling for the next government to streamline and make voting from across the world much easier to conduct. This also means that as elections approach, the diaspora is focused on supporting the political process any way they can, and encouraging others to engage with the elections in their own ways.
