KATHMANDU, JANUARY 23, 2026 – In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister and protector of the Progressive Democratic Party, Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, has officially withdrawn his candidacy from Gorkha Constituency No. 2. The decision was announced on Friday, just hours before the Election Commission’s final deadline for the withdrawal of nominations for the March 5 general elections.
Dr. Bhattarai, who had initially filed his nomination on January 20, shared his decision via a Facebook Live broadcast, citing a need to play a broader “guardian-like” role in national politics rather than being confined to a single parliamentary seat. This move comes after intense discussions with local leaders, youth activists, and reportedly, a strategic request from the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which has fielded its General Secretary, Kabindra Burlakoti, from the same constituency.
Reasons Behind the Withdrawal: During his address, Bhattarai explained that his return to the electoral fray was initially prompted by “public demand” and a desire to safeguard the federal democratic republic amid shifting global geopolitics. However, he stated that the overwhelming feedback from his well-wishers and the youth-led political movement suggested he should stay above party competition.
Support for New Faces: Bhattarai emphasized that he wants to pave the way for a younger generation of leaders. By stepping aside, he aims to avoid a “clash of progressive forces” in Gorkha-2.
Guardian Role: He expressed that he will now focus on providing policy research and advisory support to alternative political forces and the upcoming government, rather than seeking a position for himself.
Transitional Justice: Bhattarai noted that he intends to dedicate his time to resolving the remaining issues of the peace process and transitional justice from outside the Parliament.
Impact on Gorkha-2: The withdrawal of Dr. Bhattarai, who has represented Gorkha-2 multiple times (2008, 2017, 2022), significantly shifts the electoral dynamics. The race is now primarily between:
Kabindra Burlakoti (RSP)
Prakash Chandra Dawadi (Nepali Congress)
Milan Gurung / Chakre Milan (CPN-UML)
Lekhnath Neupane (Nepali Communist Party)
While Dr. Bhattarai has not explicitly endorsed a specific candidate yet, his exit is seen as a tactical advantage for the RSP, given his recent history of seeking alliances with alternative political forces. The Gorkha District Election Office confirmed that the withdrawal process was completed at 1:25 PM, and his name will not appear on the final ballot papers for the March 5 polls.