Kulman Ghising formally launches new political party: “Ujyaalo Nepal Party” enters political arena

Kathmandu — In a major political development today, Kulman Ghising, currently Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, took centre stage as the newly formed Ujyaalo Nepal Party (UNP) was officially unveiled in Kathmandu

The launch event, held at Nepal Academy (Pragya Bhawan), attracted a large crowd of supporters, signaling a potentially significant shake-up in Nepal’s political landscape. Ghising’s participation — despite holding ministerial portfolios — has drawn widespread attention.

UNP, though led nominally by former energy secretary Anup Kumar Upadhyay as chairperson, is widely regarded as Ghising’s brainchild. The party submitted to the Election Commission of Nepal (EC) a 51-member central committee and requested “light bulb” as its election symbol.

In the unveiling speech, party leaders outlined an ambitious agenda centered on economic transformation, social justice, and renewed governance — offering themselves as an alternative to traditional political parties.

However, Ghising’s dual role — minister in the interim government and patron of a new political party — has sparked critical debate over the neutrality expected of a caretaker administration ahead of next year’s national elections. Critics argue this blurs the line between state functions and partisan politics.

Only time will tell whether “Ujyaalo Nepal Party” can capitalize on public goodwill and technical reputation of its backers, or whether its promise of a “bright Nepal” will be tested amid intense political competition.