Kathmandu, Feb. 20 -- UML has named its election manifesto 'pratibaddhata patra', meaning commitment paper, emphasising what it calls are firm promises backed by responsibility.

In the early days following the Gen Z uprising, the UML openly questioned the legitimacy of the government led by former chief justice Sushila Karki, arguing that it was unconstitutional, and casting doubt over any election it might conduct. The party also appeared largely unsympathetic to the young protesters, often taking a hard line against their demands.

Yet in its newly unveiled manifesto, the tone has noticeably shifted. The document makes a clear effort to appeal to young voters, with promises focused on jobs, innovation, and opportunity. The contrast is ...