Social Activist Ashika Tamang Announces Independent Candidacy for Parliament

Social activist Ashika Tamang has announced that she will contest the upcoming House of Representatives election as an independent candidate.

Writing on Facebook, Tamang said she will file her independent candidacy in the House of Representatives election scheduled for Falgun 21, from either Kathmandu constituency No. 2 or No. 9.

She stated that over the past few weeks she has been engaged in serious discussions and self-reflection about entering active politics, and has decided to move forward independently, rising above party-based politics.

“I have decided not to be affiliated with any political party and hereby announce my independent candidacy in the upcoming parliamentary election, prioritizing Kathmandu constituencies No. 2 and 9,” she wrote.

Tamang said her decision to run independently was driven by respect for the voices, issues, and desire for change raised by Generation Z, and the belief that these voices must be strongly represented from the streets to the (parliament).

“This candidacy is inspired not by personal ambition, but by a commitment to represent the voice of the new generation, accountable politics, transparency, and practical solutions. I want to assure that I will move forward firmly, independently, and fearlessly for the dreams of youth, their future, and the overall interest of the country,” she said.

She added that respecting the sentiments of the younger generation, raising public-interest issues from the streets to the parliament, and continuing the fight against corruption remain her firm commitments.

Originally from the film industry, Tamang has been actively involved in social work for the past few years. Through her foundation, she has carried out various social activities and, with the support of donors, provided assistance to the martyrs’ families and the injured of the Gen Z movement that took place on Bhadra 23 and 24.

Prior to unification with the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah had invited Tamang and offered her a proportional representation candidacy. However, Tamang had said she would only contest through a direct election.

According to Tamang, more than 92 percent of respondents in a poll she conducted on social media regarding her entry into active politics suggested that she should contest the election directly.