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 today:

Gen Z Urges All Parties to Participate in March 5 HoR Elections:
Representatives of the Gen Z protest have called on all political parties to actively participate in the upcoming House of Representatives elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. Following a meeting with the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at the Office of the President, Gen Z representative Miraj Dhungana emphasized that elections are a democratic process to elect the people’s representatives and should be conducted freely, fairly, and impartially. He urged fair competition and inclusion of those who led the street movement in the current Council of Ministers. Political parties sought security guarantees, while the government encouraged full participation.

Internal Tensions Emerge in Gen Z Movement Over Proposed Ministerial Appointments:
Rifts are surfacing within Nepal’s Gen Z movement as Prime Minister Sushila Karki plans to expand her cabinet with ministers purportedly representing youth activists. Key activist Miraj Dhungana criticized the proposed names—Ramji Ram, Ganapati Lal Shrestha, Bablu Gupta, and Tashi Lhazom—questioning their legitimacy and lack of consultation with the movement. While the nominees have strong social and community credentials, many activists fear political co-option could undermine the street-led movement. As the government seeks to integrate Gen Z figures into formal politics, tensions grow, highlighting a widening gap between grassroots youth activists and the state’s attempts at institutional representation.

President Paudel Admitted to Manmohan Hospital, Health Condition Stable:
President Ramchandra Paudel has been admitted to the Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular & Transplant Center at Tribhuvan University Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj, after his health condition deteriorated. According to a statement issued by the hospital, Executive Director Prof. Dr. Ratna Mani Gajurel confirmed that a team of doctors is closely monitoring the President’s condition. The hospital has informed that his health is currently stable and there is no cause for serious concern. Further updates regarding his medical condition and treatment will be provided as necessary, the hospital added.

RSP Leaders Call for Unity, Reject Rumors Amid Preparations for Elections:
The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) concluded its Secretariat meeting on Friday, with Acting Chair DP Aryal urging leaders to avoid unverified statements that fuel public confusion. Vice-Chair Dr. Swarnim Wagle echoed the call for discipline and a unified voice. Leaders dismissed speculation about Energy Minister Kulman Ghising joining the party or becoming president as baseless. The meeting also discussed strengthening district and local organizations, forming a dialogue committee with political forces, and reviewing leadership and strategy ahead of elections. Party officials confirmed that RSP’s first general convention is likely post-national elections, while internal investigations continue regarding Chair Rabi Lamichhane’s release from Nakkhu Prison.

Nepali Congress Youth Demand 40% Representation in Party and Elections:
Youth members of the Nepali Congress staged a sit-in at the party’s Sanepa office on Saturday, calling for statutory reforms to guarantee 40 percent youth representation across all party departments and election candidates. Demonstrators urged expedited distribution of active memberships to ensure at least 25 percent of members belong to the Gen-Z age group. They also demanded an end to automatic convention representation for outgoing office bearers and called for clear, tech-friendly criteria for membership applications. Protesters emphasized separating party leadership from government positions to prevent dual roles and strengthen accountability, aiming to make the Congress more dynamic and youth-inclusive.

“Gen-Z Alliance for Monarchy” Warns of Rebellion Over Exclusion:
A group calling itself the “Gen-Z Alliance for Monarchy” has issued a warning of rebellion, claiming to represent the “true Gen-Z” generation. In a statement released Saturday, the group accused the government of sidelining genuine patriotic youth and engaging only with political party activists and foreign INGOs under the guise of Gen-Z dialogue. They called for an immediate halt to the one-sided discussions between the president and prime minister and urged all-party consensus. The group stressed that martyrs and injured fighters from the recent movement were true patriots, while those exploiting the protests were linked to corrupt political and foreign interests.

Shashank Koirala Urges Dissolution of NC Central Committee to Expedite General Convention:
Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shashank Koirala has called on party President Sher Bahadur Deuba to immediately dissolve the party’s Central Working Committee and appoint an Acting President to facilitate the upcoming general convention. Speaking from the party’s central office in Sanepa, Dr. Koirala emphasized that the convention must be a regular one, scheduled for November–December, not a special gathering. He suggested that the Acting President should form new committees and set the convention date. Dr. Koirala expressed confidence that the party would finalize the schedule for the regular general convention by mid-December, ensuring timely organizational renewal.

Former Army Officials Defend Nepal Army Amid Criticism:
Retired Nepal Army personnel have urged political leaders to refrain from defaming the institution, highlighting its role in maintaining peace during the Gen-Z protests. Speaking at a press conference in Kathmandu, former officers including Brig. Gen. Dr. Prem Singh Basnyat and Capt. Basudev Adhikari emphasized that the army acted responsibly, preventing large-scale casualties while upholding national interest. They criticized remarks against the army by political leaders, urging them to review the National Security Council provisions and Military Act before commenting. The former officials called for respect toward the army, warning that irresponsible statements could harm both the institution and national stability.

Government to Secure $100 Million Concessional Loan from ADB for Public Finance Reform:
The government has approved a concessional loan of US $100 million (around Rs 14.25 billion) from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support the Public Financial Management Reform and Service Delivery Transfer Program. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting on Thursday, with the borrowing intended to supplement the government’s budgetary resources. To facilitate the loan agreement, the government will form a negotiation team led by a joint-secretary from the Ministry of Finance. The initiative aims to strengthen public financial management and enhance service delivery across government programs with the support of one of the country’s key development partners.

Gold Hits New Record of Rs 239,200 per Tola in Nepal; Silver Also Soars:
Gold prices in Nepal surged to a fresh record of Rs 239,200 per tola (11.66 grams) last week, rising Rs 4,400 overall, according to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association (FENEGOSIDA). Prices climbed on all weekdays except Friday, driven by rising international demand from India and China, depreciation of the Indian rupee, and concerns over the BRICS currency. On Friday, prices eased by Rs 4,200 following Israel’s ceasefire in Gaza and increased US dollar value. Silver also hit a record high of Rs 3,085 per tola, up Rs 155 from Sunday, reflecting global precious metal trends.

NEPSE Falls 81 Points Amid Political Uncertainty and Market Volatility:
Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) dropped 81 points last week, closing at 2,582.18 amid political uncertainty and public holidays declared to mourn flood victims. The three-day trading session saw a 3.04% overall decline, with hotels and tourism shares falling 4.79% and ‘other’ groups, including reinsurance firms, dropping 5.79%. NIC Asia Debenture recorded the highest gain of 9.11%, while Bhugol Energy Development shares fell 14.8%. The total turnover reached Rs 15.65 billion, with an average daily turnover of Rs 5.21 billion. Market capitalization declined to Rs 4.316 trillion, causing an estimated investor loss of Rs 38 billion.

Official Trailer of Nepali Film Jerry on Top Unveiled, Showcasing Everest Climb and Love Triangle:
The official trailer of the Nepali movie Jerry on Top, set for release on Aswin 31, has been unveiled in a grand event in Kathmandu. The four-minute trailer highlights the thrilling Everest expedition and a love triangle at the heart of the story. Protagonist Jerry (Anmol KC) vows to conquer Mount Everest, challenging the legacy of his father, while navigating romantic ups and downs with Aanchal Sharma and Jasita Gurung. Directed by Suyog Gurung and produced by Saroj Nyaupane under Ananya Films, the film features actors Bhuwan KC, Kedar Ghimire, and Usha Khadgi, with notable technical contributions in cinematography, editing, music, and choreography.

Filming of Nepali Movie Kakakiki Begins in Parbat, Stars Gather for Shoot:
The official filming of the Nepali movie Kakakiki commenced on Thursday morning with an auspicious ceremony in Bhukdeurali, Parbat district. Produced by the team behind the popular comedy show Comedy Darbar, the 35-day shooting schedule will capture the first 20 days in scenic Parbat villages, with remaining scenes shot in Kathmandu. Lead actors including Tripti Nadkar, Rekha Thapa, Diya Maskey, Subash Gajurel, Mahesh Tripathi, and Suvarna Thapa are currently filming. Veteran actress Gauri Malla will join the cast soon. The film is co-directed by Vicky Agrawal and Shraddha Prasai, with screenplay by Agrawal and story collaboration with Vikas Aryal and Saroj Bhandari.

Nepali Film Soltini Releases New Lyrical Song Naulakh Tara Highlighting Love and Social Struggles:
The upcoming Nepali movie Soltini, set to release on Kartik 6, has unveiled its new lyrical song Naulakh Tara. Sung by Jhuma Limbu, Sunita Thegim, and Prashant Shivakoti, who also composed the lyrics and music, with arrangement by Devesh Rai, the song reflects the emotional narrative of the film. The visuals depict the love story of protagonists Prakash Saput and Pariksha Limbu, highlighting familial and societal challenges they face. Directed by Arjun Subedi and featuring actors including Sundar Dhital, Sabbu Gurung, and Sujan Khatiwada, Soltini explores themes of social inequality, caste discrimination, and love against societal barriers, filmed across scenic locations in eastern Nepal.

Balidan Tops Box Office Among Dashain Releases, Outperforming Two Competitors:
Among the three major Nepali films released on Dashain’s Phulpati day this year, Balidan led the box office, according to the Film Development Board’s eight-day collection report. The film grossed NPR 37.55 million, surpassing rivals Haribahadurko Jutta (NPR 32.17 million) and Maitighar (NPR 21.36 million). The figures reflect collections only from cinemas linked to the board’s system, excluding single-screen or unregistered theaters. Directed by Santosh Sen, Balidan features Sameer Bhatt, Sougat Malla, Richa Sharma, Arpan Thapa, Hemant Budhathoki, and Kavita Rai. Haribahadurko Jutta is directed by Dipendra Kharel, starring Hari Bansh Acharya, Swastima Khadka, and Prakash Saput, while Maitighar by Milan Tamang stars Dhiraj Magar, Kedar Ghimire, Upasana Singh Thakuri, and Prakash Saput.

Tribhuvan University Cricket Ground Upgrades on Fast Track Ahead of Tihar:
Construction at Tribhuvan University (TU) Cricket Ground in Kirtipur is progressing rapidly, with officials aiming to finish major works before Tihar. Two floodlight poles have been installed, while the remaining are being set up. The upgrade includes international-standard facilities such as modern seating, floodlights, and other amenities, preparing the ground to host the second season of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Project officials are working at full pace to meet the festival deadline. Minister for Urban Development Kulman Ghising recently inspected the site, instructing officials to complete remaining works on time, ensuring the stadium is ready for national and international matches.

Top Nepali Clubs Demand Major Reforms, Pressure ANFA on League Management:
Nine top-division Nepali football clubs have jointly urged the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to implement long-term reforms in league management. Ahead of ANFA’s meeting on the proposed ‘home-and-away’ league, clubs demanded an independent league committee with administrative, financial, and legal autonomy, coordinated with the AFC. They stressed legal and structural clarity for stadium rights, infrastructure support, and operational expenses, including team logistics. Clubs also called for legal mechanisms to prevent match-fixing and betting, equal opportunities for all 14 clubs to meet AFC licensing standards, and inclusive consultation in rule-making. The move signals an institutional push for accountability and transparency in Nepali club football.

Nepal Tops Group, Enters Super Six of ICC T20 World Cup Asia & East Asia-Pacific Qualifier:
Nepal emerged as the group winner in the ICC T20 World Cup Asia & East Asia-Pacific Qualifier, advancing to the Super Six stage. In Friday’s final Group B match, Nepal comfortably defeated Japan by 5 wickets, securing 4 points in the group phase. Nepal had earlier beaten Kuwait by 58 runs to qualify for the next stage. Chasing Japan’s 132-run target, Nepal reached the total in 18 overs, losing 5 wickets. Opener Asif Sheikh scored 38 off 21 balls, while Gulshan Kumar Jha remained unbeaten on 28. Japan’s top scorer Kendel Kadowaki made 60, but Japan finished the match with 131/8.

Sharad Singh, Pushpa Limbu Win ‘Mechinagar Run 2082’ Marathon:
Sharad Singh and Pushpa Limbu of Damak claimed first place in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively, at the ‘Mechinagar Run 2082’ marathon organized by Youth for Society in memory of Gen-Z movement martyrs. The race, starting from Jyamirgadhi and ending at Dhulabari, saw 164 participants, including 156 male and 18 female athletes from Jhapa district. Runners finishing first, second, and third won Rs 5,000, Rs 3,000, and Rs 2,000, respectively. The organizers also provided Rs 50,000 financial assistance to the families of martyrs Dinesh Rajbanshi and Gopal Sedhai. East Horizon School pledged to cover education expenses for these families.

Trump to Visit Middle East for Gaza Peace Deal Signing:
US President Donald Trump is set to travel to the Middle East to attend the signing ceremony of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt, potentially ending the two-year Israel-Hamas conflict. His visit will begin in Israel, where he will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and address the Knesset. Israeli media report that Trump is also likely to meet families of hostages affected by the war. Egyptian media confirm preparations for his arrival on Monday. The trip follows Trump’s announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire, signaling a potential breakthrough in the ongoing crisis.

Trump Threatens 100% Tariff on Chinese Imports Amid Rare-Earth Tensions:
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports starting 1 November, following China’s new export controls on rare earth elements critical for electronics, military hardware, and EVs. In a Truth Social post, Trump called China’s restrictions “extremely hostile” and suggested he might reconsider his upcoming meeting with Xi Jinping in South Korea. China dominates rare earth mining and processing, requiring foreign firms to secure approvals for exports. The announcement rattled global markets, with the S&P 500 dropping 2.7%. Analysts warn that escalating tariffs could reignite a trade war and slow global economic growth.