KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 15

I am deeply bothered on learning that one of my neighbours is all set to fly abroad in search of work on the eve of the general elections.

"The election no more appeals to me as it is no more than a process to renew the leaders' license to stay in power for another five years, and we are merely being used as a ladder," he said. "And, the election pledges are a mere mirage because they will be repeating the same manifesto even after five years with little action to realise them." Indeed, an election determines a nation's future, and youth's participation is necessary to strengthen and promote democracy. Unfortunately, the growing frustration of the youths towards the elections is becoming a matter of grave concern.

The right to cast one's vote is a rare platform to express one's opinion about the leader one picks. Yet, why are the youths not excited about this opportunity at all? Some of our youth show no interest in the elections whereas others are engaging in a ' no vote campaign' instead of enjoying this golden opportunity. What has disenchanted them from the elections? In fact, with each and every election, the political parties unveil manifestos teeming with promises. But every time they fail to translate their vows into practice. On one hand, the country is bogged down in a quagmire of nepotism, favouritism and corruption, while on the other hand, employment opportunities are eroding. Instead of promoting industries, successive governments have shut down industries like the Biratnagar Jute Mills, Janakpur Cigarette Factory, Gorakhkali Rubber Udhyog, textile mills and sugar mills one after the other, throwing thousands of people out of work.

Despite assurances to create employment opportunities in the country, the leaders are encouraging the youths to seek jobs outside the country, promising free visas to them. The parties show no shame even after failing to transform their commitments into practice repeatedly, and keep making impossible promises in the election manifestos.

So, the youth, instead of rejecting the election, must be more active and rational when it comes to casting their priceless votes. They must be able to separate the fake commitments from the genuine ones based on the leaders' performance and vote for the person who can brighten the country's future.

Those who have a vision for their constituency and the country as a whole and can guarantee quality life to the people should get priority over other candidates.

A version of this article appears in the print on November 16, 2022 of The Himalayan Times.