Nepal’s First Openly Transgender Candidates Make History

For the first time, two openly transgender candidates are running for office in Nepal, a country known for progressive LGBTQ+ rights yet lacking LGBTQ+ political representation since 2008. Honey Maharjan, 44, is campaigning to become mayor of Kirtipur, aiming to inspire the queer community and tackle discrimination in employment, healthcare, and education. Mouni Maharjan, 29, is contesting for ward chair, focusing on combating workplace and school discrimination while advocating for LGBTQ+-inclusive education. Both candidates, representing the People’s Socialist Party Nepal, symbolize progress in a society still grappling with inequality. Former MP Sunil Babu Pant has hailed their candidacies as a significant step for LGBTQ+ representation in Nepal.

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