Manushi Yami, who transitioned from student media to mainstream politics, contested from Kathmandu 7 in the recently held parliamentary elections. Yami, who previously won the election for the Free Student Union with a significant number of votes, struggled to maintain her legacy in parliamentary elections.
Yami acknowledges that after the elections, she gained insights into the financial dynamics of politics.
“In 2009, when I contested in the FSU election, circumstances were different,” says Yami. “My experience in parliamentary elections taught me about the influence of money in politics.”
She further notes that even to secure a candidacy, financial considerations play a significant role. Despite being the candidate of a coalition party, financial constraints posed a significant challenge.
Yami expresses surprise at the unexpected financial investment required to contest an election.
“Kathmandu is home to literate individuals. I assumed voters would prioritize the academic and professional background of candidates, but I was mistaken.”
During the 11th edition of the Nepal Literature Festival in Lakeside, Pokhara.Yami reveals that overnight, people began making financial demands in exchange for their votes.
However, Member of Parliament Bidhya Bhattarai asserts that she did not have to spend money during the election, as her party covered all expenses.
“Prior to the election, I informed the party that I could not afford election expenses, so they covered all my costs,” says Bhattarai.
She adds that if a candidate can persuade voters with their ideas and views, they may not need to spend money during an election.
Joint Secretary of the Nepali Congress, Dina Upadhyaya, highlights that although the Election Commission has set limits on expenses, enforcement remains lacking.
“Previously, candidates spent money on items like t-shirts, caps, and banners. However, after restrictions were imposed on such expenses, candidates began engaging in direct cash transactions,” says Upadhyaya.
