Nepal's democracy has long struggled with challenges that undermine the integrity of its electoral process. A striking revelation from the 2021 Nepal Census has highlighted a growing concern: 23 per cent of Nepal's total population is listed as absentee. Coupled with this, over 25 per cent of the country's population, predominantly the youth, seek employment abroad. This migration trend further complicates the democratic process, particularly when it comes to ensuring accurate voter representation and a truly participatory election.

The recent general election brought these concerns into sharper focus. Despite a reported voter turnout of 61 per cent, many questioned the legitimacy of the election due to widespread allegations of proxy voting. Proxy votes, where individuals cast ballots on behalf of others without their direct participation, were notably exercised, casting doubts on the fairness and transparency of the process. Given these issues, it's clear that Nepal's electoral system needs reform to reflect a more democratic, transparent and inclusive process.

Nepal's recent general election may have initially appeared to signal active civic engagement and political participation. However, a deeper look into the underlying factors that contributed to this number reveals significant concerns about the authenticity and fairness of the election process. A considerable proportion of this voter turnout is believed to have been influenced by proxy voting, a practice where individuals cast ballots on behalf of others, often without their explicit consent or participation.

Proxy voting, while occasionally permissible in some democratic systems under specific conditions, poses a serious challenge in Nepal, where its practice is frequently linked to manipulation and the erosion of electoral integrity. In a system where citizens must have full control over their vote, proxy voting represents a loophole that undermines the principle of one person, one vote-a cornerstone of any democracy.

The most fundamental impact of proxy voting is the loss of accountability in the election process. In a legitimate democratic system, each individual vote should reflect the genuine choice of the voter, free from external influences or coercion. However, proxy voting allows one person to make decisions on behalf of another, often without the latter's knowledge or consent. This breach of personal autonomy distorts the very foundation of democratic participation.

In a country like Nepal, where trust in political institutions can be fragile, this lack of accountability breeds skepticism among the electorate. Voters who may have cast their ballots freely may later discover that their votes were either manipulated or diluted by proxy votes. This reduces the credibility of the election and makes it harder for the public to trust that their collective voice is being accurately represented.

Moreover, the practice of proxy voting is highly prone to manipulation by political parties or individuals looking to sway the results in their favour. Political operatives may exploit vulnerable or unaware voters to cast ballots on their behalf, particularly in rural or remote areas where information is limited. The sheer scale of absenteeism, as indicated by the 23 per cent absentee population according to the 2021 census, further exacerbates this issue. As many Nepalis work or live abroad, proxy voting provides an avenue for unscrupulous political players to take advantage of this population's lack of direct participation, often manipulating their votes in absentia.

In an election where proxy voting is prevalent, the actual outcome may not reflect the true preferences of the electorate. Rather, it may represent the interests of those who have manipulated the system. When this happens on a large scale, the legitimacy of the entire election is called into question. For the international community and citizens alike, this casts doubt on Nepal's democratic credibility, potentially isolating the country politically and diplomatically.

Tens of thousands of young Nepali citizens work abroad, making their participation in national elections nearly impossible. This group, over 25 per cent of the population, remains excluded from decisions that affect the country's future.

Nepal's general election of 2022, with a 61 per cent voter turnout, seems to show active participation. However, a significant portion of this turnout is believed to involve proxy voting, where individuals vote on behalf of others without consent. Proxy voting undermines the principle of 'one person, one vote' and threatens electoral integrity.

Another avenue for reform would be the introduction of digital voting or absentee voting systems that allow Nepalis living abroad to participate in elections. With over 25 per cent of the population working abroad, many of whom are young and economically active, it is crucial to enable them to exercise their right to vote, even if they cannot physically be present.

An online or postal voting system would allow expatriates to cast their ballots securely and efficiently, making their voices heard in the political process.

The main issue with proxy voting is the loss of accountability. It allows one person to decide for another, often without their knowledge, distorting democratic participation and undermining the fairness of the election.

Nepal is at a critical juncture. The future of its democracy hinges on reforming the electoral system to tackle absenteeism, eliminate proxy voting and ensure all citizens, regardless of location, have a say in the nation's future. It's time for Nepal to modernise its election process to align with the globalised world while preserving the integrity of its democracy. Only then can Nepal truly achieve a participatory, transparent and robust democracy for all its people.