Speakers at a “ The People’s Panel” session of the Kantipur Conclave 2026 said frustration with traditional politics and media has pushed non-traditional voices into the mainstream, reshaping public debate and political engagement in Nepal.

Medical entrepreneur and activist Durga Prasain, political commentator Rishi Dhamala, Rastriya Prajatantra Party leader Khushbu Oli and journalist Santosh Deuja shared the stage on the second day of the conclave, reflecting on how public trust has shifted away from established institutions.

Journalist Santosh Deuja questioned the long-held belief about who gets to speak in public discourse, saying Nepal for years maintained a narrow definition of who qualified as a journalist. He said supporting “good individuals” rather than parties was more important, citing his backing of Nepali Communist Party candidate Renu Dahal based on personal merit.

Rishi Dhamala, who has moved from journalism into politics, said he entered politics to reform it and make it people-oriented. He said current leaders succeeded in political movements but failed to build the country, citing corruption and poor governance. He said this failure motivated him to contest from Rautahat-4 and urged people to see the realities of marginalised areas firsthand.

Khushbu Oli said social media does not create leaders but generates waves of popularity, warning that misinformation and disinformation have added to public confusion. She expressed concern about how mature the next parliament would be if popularity replaces accountability, ideology and responsibility.

Durga Prasai said he speaks openly because he believes politics has failed to address core problems. He said he considers former king Gyanendra Shah a guardian and occasionally disagrees with him, likening it to a child being angry with a parent. Prasai also said advocating monarchy and religion had made arrests a routine part of his life.

The session focused on how distrust in leadership, media credibility and governance has opened space for unconventional actors to influence national debate.

Sama Thapa of Kantipur Television moderated the session.