KATHMANDU: Stay updated with Nepal News’ evening briefing, bringing you the day’s most important developments from Nepal and across the globe. From politics and economy to sports, entertainment, and culture, we deliver a concise roundup of the top news you need to know.

Nepali Congress Has Reformed After Gen Z Protests, Claims Party President Gagan Thapa:

Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has claimed that the party has learned important lessons from the Gen Z movement of September 08 – 09 and has reformed itself accordingly. Speaking at a program organized by Nepali Congress Kathmandu Constituency No. 5 on Saturday, Thapa said the party has moved forward with a mission to change the country. He stated that after completing its general convention, Nepali Congress has effectively become the country’s most “new” party. Thapa stressed the need to convey the message of change to grassroots levels and reconnect with the party’s 2.7 million voters. He emphasized unity within the party, commitment to good governance, and fighting corruption.

“Time for Election Alliances Is Over,” Says CPN Coordinator Prachanda:

CPN (Nepal Communist Party) Coordinator Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ stated in Sindhuli on Saturday that the window for forming electoral alliances has passed. He claimed that both Nepali Congress and CPN-UML had proposed seat-sharing arrangements before the NC’s special general convention and the National Assembly elections. Prachanda clarified that the proposals were neither initiated nor formally accepted by his party. He explained that efforts for an alliance began during the National Assembly elections, but with Congress and UML forming the government instead, alliance possibilities were blocked. Consequently, Prachanda said a coalition for the upcoming House of Representatives election is no longer feasible.

UML Chair Oli Claims AI-Fabricated Video Targeting Deuba During Gen Z Protests:

CPN-UML Chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, campaigning in his home district of Jhapa, stated that a video circulating during the Gen Z protests—allegedly showing cash at Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba’s residence—was fabricated using artificial intelligence. Oli described the footage as fake, created abroad to spread disinformation, and urged voters not to trust social media content blindly. Responding to questions on corruption, he said he cannot vouch for every leader’s actions but would take action if wrongdoing is proven. Oli reiterated his commitment to fight corruption if elected, while voters demanded impartial investigations.

Rabi Lamichhane Urges Voters to Give Rastriya Swatantra Party a Majority for Stability:

Rastriya Swatantra Party Chair Rabi Lamichhane has called on voters to grant his party a majority to ensure political stability in Nepal. Speaking to constituents in Chitwan-2, he emphasized that simply winning a few seats is insufficient; the party aims for a single-party majority to form a stable government for five years. Lamichhane stated that as party chair, he has responsibilities across the country and urged voters to support him as their representative in the election campaign. He stressed that a strong mandate will allow the party’s governance and achievements to speak for themselves, relying on citizens’ discernment.

Four Boys Injured in Explosion of Suspicious Object in Saptari:

Four boys were injured on Saturday after a suspicious object exploded in the Dudaila stream area of Rupani Rural Municipality–6 in Saptari district. The incident occurred when children, who had gone for a picnic, collected firewood along with a rocket-like object they found in the stream and placed it near a stove. The object suddenly exploded, injuring boys aged between 9 and 16. All injured children were initially treated at Madhesh Province Police Hospital in Rupani and later referred to Chhinnamasta Hospital in Rajbiraj for further care. Police said the boys’ condition is stable and an investigation is underway to identify the object.

Pressure Cooker Bomb Found and Defused in Bardiya’s Gulariya:

A pressure cooker bomb discovered on Saturday near the Irrigation Office in Gulariya, the district headquarters of Bardiya, was safely defused by the Nepali Army. The suspicious object was found in a field north of the office, after which local residents alerted the police. A bomb disposal team from Bajradal Battalion, based in Gulariya–Tulsipur, was deployed to neutralize the device. According to preliminary investigations, the bomb is believed to date back to the period of Nepal’s armed conflict, when the Irrigation Office premises housed an army camp. Security forces have intensified patrols and search operations in the surrounding area.

Home Minister Aryal Assures Strong Security Arrangements for HoR Elections:

Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal has stated that robust security arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming House of Representatives election. Speaking to journalists after receiving a briefing on election security and enforcement of the code of conduct at the Chief Election Officer’s office, Aryal said the government is fully committed to ensuring a peaceful and fear-free election environment. He emphasized that conducting the election smoothly is the government’s primary responsibility and urged voters to participate without fear. The Home Minister added that an election-friendly atmosphere has been created nationwide and, according to weather agencies and experts, conditions on Falgun 21 are expected to be favorable for polling.

Nepal Prepares Full Security Deployment Ahead of House Election:

Nepal is deploying comprehensive security measures for the upcoming House of Representatives election on 05 March. The Nepal Army has been on field duty, while the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force will join next week. A total of 149,090 election police, along with personnel from the National Investigation Department, will assist in monitoring and ensuring peaceful voting. Security is structured in concentric zones: internal (polling stations) by police, secondary by Armed Police, and outer/final by the army. Of 11,901 polling stations, 4,614 are classified as highly sensitive, receiving heightened security and patrols to prevent coercion, booth capture, and election-related violence.

Ballot Boxes Dispatched as Nepal Prepares for March 05 HoR Elections:

Preparations for Nepal’s upcoming House of Representatives election have intensified, with ballot boxes now being dispatched to polling centers across the country. The Election Commission began the distribution from its Bahadur Bhawan office in Kantipath for the election scheduled on March 05. Meanwhile, Janak Education Materials Centre Limited in Sanothimi is printing around 1.3 million ballot papers daily. The center expects to complete printing and packing of all ballots within a week. Printing and packing of 20.83 million proportional representation ballots have already been completed, while direct election ballots are scheduled to be finalized and delivered to districts by early February.

Jhapa–5 Emerges as Most Sensitive Constituency Amid Balen–Oli Electoral Showdown:

Jhapa–5 has become Nepal’s most sensitive constituency as former Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah and CPN-UML Chair KP Sharma Oli face off. Security agencies and the government are concerned about potential clashes, as both leaders have high-stakes political survival riding on the election. Additional 100 police personnel have been deployed in Damak to manage risks. The area sees heavy involvement of outsiders and cross-border influences, raising fears of violence if either side resorts to destabilizing tactics.

Nepali Congress to Launch Election Campaign with First Mass Rally in Janakpurdham:

The Nepali Congress has announced that it will begin its election campaign for the House of Representatives election scheduled for March 05 by holding its first mass rally in Janakpurdham, the capital of Madhesh Province. The rally will take place on Falgun 6 at Tirhutiya Gachhi. The Madhesh Province Executive Committee has assigned stage management responsibilities to Yogendra Pajiyar, while campaign publicity will be handled by Madhesh Province Communications Department Chief Nitesh Kumar Gupta. The party plans to mobilize hundreds of thousands of participants from all 32 constituencies in the province. Nepali Congress leader Gagan Kumar Thapa will attend as the chief guest, along with other central leaders.

Balen Shah’s “Core Team” Leads Rastriya Swatantra Party’s Candidate Surge Ahead of Elections:

Ahead of the House of Representatives election on March 05, former Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah has created a “Balen Wave” by fielding members of his core team and close associates as candidates under the Rastriya Swatantra Party. Key figures include Sasmita Pokharel in Kathmandu-5, Bhupdev Shah in Achham-2, Rajunath Pandey in Lalitpur-3, Sunil Lamsal in Rupandehi-1, Ganesh Karki in Morang-3, and Bablu Gupta in Siraha-1. While some candidates face strong competition from Congress, UML, and Rastriya Prajatantra Party, the urban voter base shows support for Rastriya Swatantra Party, emphasizing the influence of Balen’s personal brand and strategic placement of trusted allies.

Rabi Lamichhane Urges Voters to Elect Sudan Gurung as “Gen-Z Movement Warrior” to Parliament:

Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) president Rabi Lamichhane praised party youth leader Sudan Gurung as a key figure of the Gen-Z movement during a campaign in Gorkha on Saturday. Lamichhane highlighted Gurung’s patriotism and dedication to supporting injured activists and martyr families, describing him as a “warrior for change.” Acknowledging that Gurung’s style and political maturity might draw questions, Lamichhane emphasized his unquestionable love for the country. He urged voters to elect Gurung to the federal parliament to provide a strong voice in policy-making, pledging to support young leaders like him in shaping Nepal’s future.

Dr. C.K. Raut Alleges Police Support for Rastriya Swatantra Party Campaign:

Dr. C.K. Raut, chair of Janamat Party Nepal, has accused police of actively supporting the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) during the election campaign. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Raut claimed police vehicles were used for RASWAPA promotion, candidates were escorted by law enforcement, and officers even encouraged voters to support the party. He also alleged that police shielded disruptive RSP supporters. Raut shared a television interview highlighting his concerns about government involvement, warning that such actions resemble orchestrated events aimed at later legitimization, similar to incidents in Iraq. He asserted that the public is observing and will respond accordingly.

Bhutanese Princess Khendum Dorji Returns Home After Nepal Visit:

Bhutanese Princess Khendum Dorji has returned to Bhutan after visiting Nepal. She departed Kathmandu at 8:45 a.m. via Bhutan Airlines flight KB 401 and traveled by land to the capital, Thimphu. During her stay, the princess reportedly visited several of Nepal’s historical, cultural, and religious sites. Details regarding the purpose of her visit, who invited her, and her accommodation during the trip have not been disclosed. Her visit highlights ongoing cultural and diplomatic ties between Nepal and Bhutan, though official information about her itinerary and engagements remains limited.

RPP Chair Rajendra Lingden Demands Immediate Release of Royalist Activist Durga Prasai:

Rajendra Lingden, chair of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), has called for the unconditional release of royalist activist Durga Prasai. In a statement issued Saturday, Lingden accused authorities of repeatedly detaining Prasai with the intent to harass him, suppress dissenting views, and intimidate differing beliefs. He emphasized that such actions not only constitute personal retaliation but also violate citizens’ constitutional rights to freely move, speak, write, and engage in peaceful protest. Lingden urged the government to immediately release Prasai without conditions, framing it as a matter of upholding democratic principles and protecting civil liberties.

Ex-British Gurkha Soldiers Protest at Maitighar Over Non-Implementation of Supreme Court Order:

The British Gurkha Ex-Servicemen Organization (BGESO) staged a protest at Maitighar, Kathmandu, on Saturday, accusing the government of failing to implement a Supreme Court directive even after three years. The protest highlighted a directive order issued on Magh 24, 2079 (February 2023), which restricted the recruitment of Nepalis into foreign armies. BGESO President Padam Sundar Limbu said the organization viewed the court’s decision positively and was demonstrating to pressure the government to enforce it. Protesters displayed placards demanding respect for human rights, implementation of the court order, and protection of Gurkha identity.

Police Detain 25 Youths in Surkhet for Violating Election Code of Conduct:

Surkhet police have detained 25 youths associated with a group called “The Dangerous Skull” for violating the election code of conduct. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Mohan Jung Budhathapa, the group organized an unauthorized motorcycle rally carrying black and white flags near Dhuliyabit in Birendranagar-11 on Saturday afternoon. Police said the rally created disturbance, threatened public peace, and violated election laws ahead of the upcoming polls. A special team of around 30 personnel from district and municipal police detained the group at around 2:50 pm. Eight motorcycles and four scooters were seized. Further investigation is ongoing, police said.

Legendary Actor ‘Rate Kainla’ Sunil Thapa No More:

Veteran actor Sunil Thapa, popularly known as ‘Rate Kainla,’ passed away this morning at Norvic Hospital, Thapathali, following a sudden health issue. Admitted for treatment, Thapa’s condition deteriorated, leading to his untimely death, confirmed by close sources. Active in both Nepali and Indian film industries for decades, Thapa was considered a strong pillar of Nepali cinema. Renowned for his compelling portrayals of villains, he often earned as much recognition as lead actors. Though his family resides in Mumbai, Thapa lived in Shankhamul. His death has left the Nepali arts community in shock, mourning the loss of a legendary performer.

Nepali Film Industry Mourns Veteran Actor Sunil Thapa:

The Nepali film industry mourns the passing of veteran actor Sunil Thapa, who died Saturday morning from cardiac arrest. Colleagues and fans have paid tribute on social media, sharing heartfelt memories. Actor Rajesh Hamal dedicated his film journey to Thapa, calling him an irreplaceable figure in Nepali cinema. Vijay Lama, co-star in Eklō, expressed shock and grief over his departure, while actress Jal Shah recalled Thapa’s enduring impact on her heart. Other prominent artists, including Harivansh Acharya, Anup Baral, Kiran KC, directors Pradeep Bhattarai and Santosh Sen, and singers Rajesh Payal Rai and Pramod Kharel, also honored his memory online.

‘Aa Bata Aama’ Declared Hit in First Week with Rs 3.18 Crore Gross:

The Nepali film Aa Bata Aama, released last week, has been declared a hit by its producers. Director-producer Chandra Pant shared that the movie grossed NPR 3.18 crore in its first week. Featuring Pal Shah in his first lead role, alongside Bipana Thapa, Pradeep Rawat, Saignres Pokharel, Usha Upreti, Simran Pant, and Rachana Gautam, the film explores the emotional bond between a mother and her son. While it still needs additional revenue to reach full profitability, strong audience turnout across the country signals promising commercial success and widespread appeal.

‘Shree Bukuro’ Trailer Highlights Rural Life and Family Bonds:

The trailer for the upcoming Nepali film “Shree Bukuro: The Home Calling” has been released ahead of its nationwide release on Maha Shivaratri, Falgun 1. Centered on rural life, familial bonds, and the dream of building a small home, the trailer highlights emotional storytelling with Laxmi Giri as the lead. At approximately three and a half minutes, it captures human emotions, internal conflicts, and life’s expectations in a poetic style. Directed by Sudip Bhupal Singh, returning after nine years, and produced by Ruby Sen Singh under Film Range, the movie features a star-studded cast and promises to appeal to family and socially-conscious audiences.

Babita Manandhar Releases New Modern Folk Song ‘Kaliyugki Radha’:

In a special ceremony, veteran singers Kunti Moktan, Sukmit Gurung, Monila Sotang, and Devika Bandana jointly launched Babita Manandhar’s new modern folk song, “Kaliyugki Radha.” Composed by Shankar Thapa ‘Smile’ with lyrics by DP Khanal, the song blends themes of love, women’s emotions, and human relationships with a dancing beat. The music video, directed by Rajiv Samar, features captivating performances by models Ashma Bishwakarma and Abhishek Shrestha. Active in Nepali music for over two decades, Manandhar has contributed to more than two dozen films and numerous songs in Nepali, Newari, Hindi, and Bengali. Senior artists praised her vocal versatility and expressed confidence in the song’s appeal.

Pakistan Opens T20 World Cup 2026 with 3-Wicket Win Over Netherlands:

Pakistan began its ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a thrilling 3-wicket win over the Netherlands at Colombo’s Singhalese Sports Club. Chasing 148, Pakistan reached the target in 19.3 overs, losing 7 wickets. Openers Syed Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan gave a strong start, with Farhan scoring 47 off 31 balls. Later, Fahim Ashraf and Shahin Afridi steadied the innings, with Fahim hitting 29* off 11 balls, including 3 sixes. Earlier, Salman Mirza (3/24), Abrar Ahmed (2/?), and Syed Ayub (2/?) led the bowling effort, restricting the Netherlands to 147. Pakistan’s win set a positive tone for their group stage.

Jhapa–11 Stages Comeback to Reach Jhapa Gold Cup Quarterfinals:

Jhapa–11 Football Club staged a remarkable comeback to enter the quarterfinals of the Extreme 7th Jhapa Gold Cup Vinod Basnet Memorial. After trailing 1–0 against Nepal Police Club, Shishir Lekhi equalized in first-half injury time, and Rajesh Dahal scored the decisive goal in the 59th minute. Nepal Police missed several key opportunities, while Jhapa dominated play with technical precision. Rajesh Dahal was named Player of the Match, winning NPR 25,000. The tournament features top Nepali departmental clubs, regional teams, and international participants from India, Bhutan, and Malaysia. Winners will receive NPR 1.5 million, and individual awards include a Yamaha motorcycle for the best player.

Nepal Police Club Falls 3–0 to Iranian Club Foulad in Volleyball League:

In the Kavha Women’s Club Volleyball League, Nepal Police Club suffered its first defeat of the tournament, losing 3–0 to Iranian club Foulad in their second match on Friday in Malé, Maldives. The Police Club was defeated 25–14 in the first set and 25–15 in the second. Although their performance improved slightly in the competitive third set, they still lost 25–18. With this win, Foulad secured their second consecutive victory in the tournament, maintaining momentum and establishing themselves as strong contenders in the ongoing league.

Nepal Announces Squad for Third T20 World Cup:

Nepal is making its third ICC T20 World Cup appearance, playing all group-stage matches at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Scotland. Sompal Kami becomes the only Nepalese player to feature in all three World Cups. Five players—Arif Sheikh, Lokesh Bam, Basir Ahmad, Sher Mall, and Nandan Yadav—are debuting. Sher Mall and Nandan Yadav bring strong bowling credentials, while Lokesh and Basir add depth in batting. Experienced Arif Sheikh and captain Rohit Paudel provide stability. Coach Stuart Lal has combined youth and experience, hoping Nepal can compete against cricketing giants while producing surprises in Mumbai.

Extreme Energy Drinks to Broadcast Nepal’s World Cup Matches in Kathmandu:

Extreme Energy Drinks will broadcast Nepal’s ICC T20 World Cup matches on a digital screen in Kathmandu. Nepal begins its campaign on Sunday against England in the group stage. As the main sponsor for live coverage in Nepal, Extreme Energy Drinks will also display matches in public spaces. The first 1,000 spectators at Sifal Ground in Chabahil can watch the games for free. Live coverage will start at 2:45 PM. This initiative, in collaboration with Kathmandu Metropolitan City, aims to allow the general public to enjoy World Cup matches collectively, bringing fans closer to the excitement of international cricket.

Trump Signs Order Lifting 25% Tariff on Indian Goods After Trade Deal:

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order eliminating the additional 25% tariff the United States had imposed on Indian imports over New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil. The decision follows a newly announced interim trade framework between Washington and New Delhi, under which India has agreed to halt direct and indirect Russian oil imports and expand economic and defence cooperation. As part of the deal, the US will reduce reciprocal tariffs on most Indian goods from 25% to 18%, while India will cut tariffs and open market access for a range of US products. Both sides see the agreement as deepening strategic ties, though details remain under negotiation.

Bangladesh Records First Nipah Virus Death of 2026 in Naogaon:

Bangladesh reported its first Nipah virus death of 2026 after a woman from Naogaon died on January 28, officials confirmed. The patient, aged 40–50, developed fever, headache, vomiting, and neurological symptoms after consuming raw date palm sap between January 5 and 20. She became unconscious on January 27 and was admitted to a tertiary hospital the next day, where testing confirmed Nipah virus infection. This follows four deaths from NiV in 2025. The outbreak investigation identified 35 contacts, all testing negative so far but remaining under observation. Health authorities continue surveillance to prevent further spread.

Bangladeshi Authorities Inaction in Nearly Half of Pre-Election Violence Incidents:

A field monitoring report by human rights group Odhikar found authorities failed to act in nearly half of electoral violence incidents ahead of Bangladesh’s February 12 parliamentary election. Between January 18 and February 5, Odhikar documented 30 incidents across 50 constituencies in 22 districts, with BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami supporters primarily involved. Violence mostly occurred in rural areas, including streets and marketplaces, using intimidation, harassment, property damage, and obstruction to disrupt voters and candidates. Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar were major hotspots. The report urges stronger law enforcement presence, impartial enforcement, and political party directives against violence, especially to protect women and minority communities.

US Sets June Deadline for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the US has set a June deadline for Ukraine and Russia to reach a deal ending the nearly four-year war. Failure to meet the deadline could prompt US pressure on both sides. Zelenskyy confirmed the next trilateral talks may be held in Miami next week, including Ukraine. Russia reportedly presented a $12 trillion economic plan, dubbed the “Dmitriev package.” Meanwhile, Russian strikes targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, launching over 400 drones and 40 missiles overnight, forcing nuclear plants to reduce output. Eight facilities across eight regions were hit in the second major strike of the year.

Iran, US Agree to Continue Nuclear Talks Mediated by Oman:

Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Oman on Friday over Tehran’s nuclear programme, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff leading their delegations. Mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, the sessions took place without face-to-face meetings. Both sides agreed to continue negotiations, though timing and format remain undecided. Talks focused solely on the nuclear issue, despite US concerns over Iran’s missile programme and support for militant groups. The meetings come amid nationwide protests in Iran, violently suppressed by authorities, and after US military involvement in June strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.