Surendra Karki: Tehrathum’s new face of youth politics
Karki’s understanding of politics began during his student days at RR Campus.
KATHMANDU: Surendra Karki, a professional civil engineer, is making waves in Tehrathum politics with his distinctive approach and youthful energy.
Born in 2056 BS in Simle, Phedap Rural Municipality, Karki spent his early childhood in Manglung.
A distinguished student, Karki topped his district in the 2069 BS SLC examination and held several notable records at the time.
He later attended the prestigious Budhanilkantha School in Kathmandu, which counts prominent figures such as Swarnim Wagle, Sumana Shrestha, and Ujjwal Thapa among its alumni.
Karki’s understanding of politics began during his student days at RR Campus.
His deep interest in governance, combined with hands-on experience drafting reports as an engineering consultant, allowed him to engage closely with constitutional and legal frameworks. Currently, he is completing his postgraduate studies in economics at Tri-Chandra College.
Professionally, Karki has contributed to building and road design projects, water supply plans, and environmental studies.
He also serves as an evaluator for various banks, including the Agriculture Development Bank.
While Kathmandu serves as his main base, he ensures he spends equal time in Tehrathum, applying his skills locally.
Described by peers as soft-spoken yet logical, with strong self-study, writing abilities, and effective leadership, Karki has built a reputation for competence and integrity.
His political journey gained momentum after the events of Bhadra 23-24, when he mobilized youth through the initiative “Aware Terhathum,” actively participating in social and political activities.
In Tehrathum, Karki is increasingly seen as a symbol of a new generation challenging traditional politics.
His mother, Laxmi Karki, serves as the district president of the All Nepal Women’s Association (ANNIS) affiliated with UML, while his father, Birendra Karki, is the district head of the UML-affiliated Business Association.
Ahead of the local elections, Laxmi Karki is also considered a potential candidate for deputy mayor of Manglung Municipality.
Both parents voluntarily resigned from their positions following Surendra Karki’s candidacy announcement, citing ethical responsibility.
Karki’s emergence raises broader questions about generational change and ideological shifts in the district, prompting debates on why youth are seeking alternative political options.
Announcing his candidacy, Karki stated, “This decision goes beyond personal comfort, concerns, and safety. At this stage of life, the maximum sacrifice, risk, and courage I can offer to claim my place in Tehrathum politics is this, and I am fully aware of it.”
He further emphasized that his professional experience, interest in politics, engagement with constitutional and legal frameworks, and comprehensive perspective as an economics student equip him to serve as an effective representative of Tehrathum.
