Portugal : In a historic moment for the Nepali diaspora in Europe, Rameshraj Bastola, a citizen of Nepali origin, successfully served as Polling Station Chairman (Election Officer) during Portugal’s 7th Presidential Election, held on January 18 in Lisbon.
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| Source: whnews |
Bastola has become the first person of Nepali descent to be appointed to this prestigious election management role in Portugal.
As the presiding officer, Bastola played a key role in ensuring that the voting process was conducted smoothly, transparently, and in an orderly manner, enabling voters to participate with ease. His leadership was widely appreciated by local election authorities, who praised his professionalism and effective management throughout the polling process.
Speaking about his experience, Bastola shared his pride and enthusiasm:
“This was my first experience participating in an election process as a migrant, and I am extremely excited to have taken on the responsibility of polling station chairman. Contributing to a fair and transparent election is a matter of great pride for me. The fact that voting and results were completed on the same day shows Portugal’s impressive use of technology. Through this opportunity, I gained valuable experience in election management and a deeper understanding of democracy and citizen participation.”
Local election officials expressed satisfaction that the polling station under Bastola’s leadership was completed successfully despite challenging conditions.
41-year-old Bastola, originally from Parbat district of Nepal, has been living in Portugal for many years. His achievement is being seen as a milestone for the growing Nepali community in the country.
Meanwhile, in the national political outcome, Socialist Party leader António José Seguro won Portugal’s presidential election with a decisive victory. According to the Electoral Commission, Seguro secured 77.7 percent of the votes, defeating the far-right candidate who received 23.3 percent, despite adverse weather conditions and severe storms on election day.
At 63, Seguro campaigned with a strong focus on defending democracy and promoting social justice, a message that received overwhelming support from the Portuguese electorate.
Portugal is home to a significant Nepali community, with many engaged in sectors such as construction, hospitality, cleaning services, agriculture, and other service industries. A growing number of Nepali students are also pursuing higher education in the country.
Rameshraj Bastola’s appointment as polling station chairman stands as a symbol of trust, inclusion, and democratic participation, highlighting the increasing contribution of the Nepali diaspora to Portugal’s civic and political life.
