Nepal’s first transgender candidates run for local office

KIRTIPUR, Nepal: Two transgender candidates are contesting Nepal´s local by-elections for the first time, hoping to push for political representation among sexual and gender minorities in the Himalayan nation.

Nepal has some of South Asia´s most progressive laws on LGBTQ rights.

“I hope my candidacy will inspire others in the queer community to participate openly in future elections”, said Honey Maharjan, 44.

She is running for the post of mayor of Kirtipur, a settlement on the outskirts of the capital Kathmandu, in Sunday´s elections.

Despite legal strides, many LGBTQ people continue to face discrimination in employment, healthcare and education.

“Until now, not one of our community members had exercised the right to run for mayoral elections in Nepal,” said Honey.

She grew up in a poor family and struggled to make ends meet working at a restaurant washing dishes as well as at a garment factory. She is currently a tour guide.

“When I remember my past, it´s like a nightmare because I faced a lot of discrimination and abuses -- like other transgender people, I want to change this,” she said.

“We are also part of this society and can contribute to the betterment of society. This is what I want to do if I am elected.”

Mouni Maharjan, who is not related to Honey, is running for a ward chair position in the same municipality.

Both candidates represent the small People´s Socialist Party, Nepal, but not one is specifically campaigning for LGBTQ rights.