Nepal’s sexual and gender minority stakes its claim in national politics
Summary
A historic shift in Nepal's political landscape sees around 20 sexual and gender minority candidates contesting the March 5 elections through multiple parties, challenging longstanding exclusion and pushing for inclusive democracy.
Key Points
- Sexual and gender minority candidates are contesting the March 5 Nepal elections through SSP, PLP, and RSP parties.
- The newly formed SSP brings together sexual and gender minorities alongside other marginalized communities to seek political representation.
- Candidates like Numa Limbu and Rukshana Kapali emphasize the need for representation and propose policy changes for SGM rights and social justice.
- Despite some tokenistic inclusion by major parties, increased SGM participation marks a significant step toward inclusive democracy in Nepal.