Kathmandu: In a significant move for inclusivity, Deepak Maharjan (Hani), a third-gender woman, and Rajiv Maharjan (Mouni) have announced their candidacy for the upcoming local elections on Mangsir 16. The Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal (JSPN), led by Upendra Yadav, has nominated Hani for mayor of Kirtipur Municipality and Mouni for the chair of Ward No. 4.
The nominations follow advocacy by the Maya Ko Pahichan Nepal, an organization focused on the rights of sexual and gender minorities. During discussions about political participation and representation for gender minorities, both Hani and Mouni expressed their desire to contest the elections. Maya Ko Pahichan Nepal facilitated their nomination by presenting their candidacy proposal to JSPN.
“We took Hani and Mouni to JSPN’s party office, proposed their candidacy, and received a positive response. The party agreed to grant them tickets, and we are committed to ensuring their victory,” said Surendra Pandey, Secretary of Maya Ko Pahichan Nepal.
In a press conference held at Maya Ko Pahichan Nepal’s office on Saturday, Hani and Mouni officially declared their candidacy. JSPN Vice President Bidyut Bajracharya emphasized that while the state has overlooked gender minorities, the party has taken this step to ensure their participation. He assured that the party would support their candidates fully in the election.
The event was attended by JSPN central committee members, including Rajan KC, Santosh Silwal, Bina Sinha, election representative Manoj Verma, identity department representative Bikas Kancha Blon, Neva Province member Rakesh Shrestha, and others. Manindra Singh Danuwar, the runner-up of Nepal’s Mr. Gay Handsome contest, also highlighted the importance of their candidacy for Kirtipur’s identity and development.
Hani expressed her pride in being nominated and vowed to work for the betterment of Kirtipur and address the issues faced by the marginalized gender minority community. “I pledge to fight against all forms of exploitation, oppression, and discrimination,” Hani said, adding that she would officially register her candidacy on Mangsir 2.
This marks the first time a third-gender woman has run for office in Kirtipur Municipality, sparking interest among local residents. Hani’s campaign slogan, “Our Dream City, Kirtipur,” reflects her vision for the city. She emphasized her commitment to integrity and ethical conduct, vowing to work for freedom, equality, social justice, and socialism.
Hani’s Election Commitments:
Hani aims to create a clean and corruption-free Kirtipur, enhance e-governance, and address youth unemployment by creating job opportunities. Her manifesto includes initiatives to promote entrepreneurship, develop Kirtipur as a must-visit tourist destination, and implement fair tax policies, including property tax adjustments to provide relief. She also plans to ensure home-based healthcare for the elderly.
Her vision includes protecting religious and cultural heritage, preserving the fading Newa culture, and making Kirtipur a primary destination for inclusive tourism. Hani is committed to improving infrastructure, maintaining roads, drainage, and water supply systems, and ensuring public participation in development projects. Additionally, she plans to focus on pollution control, build parks and green spaces, and elevate the quality of life for residents.
Hani’s campaign promises to combat all forms of discrimination and integrate gender and sexual minorities into the mainstream development process. She advocates for an inclusive approach, promoting social transformation through peaceful and ideological struggle.
