Mahesh Basnet BiographyMahesh Basnet (born January 16, 1975) is a Nepalese politician affiliated with the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), or CPN (UML). A former Minister of Industry and longtime party organizer, he has played a significant role in shaping the party’s youth and industrial policies. Known for his assertive political style and strong influence within the party, Basnet’s career has also been marked by several controversies, especially in recent years, as he continues to remain a prominent and polarizing figure in Nepalese politics.
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Quick Facts
| Full Name | Mahesh Basnet |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 29, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Born in Suryabinayak-7, Gundu, Bhaktapur |
| Spouse | Ambika Basnyat |
| Father | Purna Bahadur Basnet |
| Mother | Ishwari Basnet |
| Profession | politician |
Detail Facts
- Rise in CPN (UML): Served as chief of the Youth Force Nepal in 2008 and became chairman of the Youth Association Nepal in 2009, earning recognition as a key youth leader. However, he has also faced criticism for alleged use of intimidation and connections with criminal elements.
- Ministerial role: Appointed Minister of Industry from September 2014 to October 2015 under Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, during which he implemented a loan waiver for industrialists affected by the 2015 earthquake.
- Electoral history: Elected as a Member of Parliament for Bhaktapur-2 in the 2017 general election but lost the seat in the November 2022 election.
- Sexual assault allegation (2024): In April 2024, a female CPN (UML) member accused Basnet of rape and coercing her into an abortion. An FIR was filed, and police reportedly prepared for his arrest, though the case’s outcome remains unclear.
- Involvement in Gen-Z protests (2025): His residence was vandalized and set ablaze during the 2025 Gen-Z protests. He was also accused of using a derogatory term ("bear" or bhalu) on Facebook to insult political figure Shova Pathak. While the Cyber Bureau initially recommended closing the case, the District Government Attorney’s Office later ordered a full investigation.
- Threatening a journalist (2025): On September 19, 2025, Basnet and his associates were accused of threatening Tekman Shakya, executive editor of Nepalesetimes.com, over coverage of the Gen-Z protests. The Federation of Nepali Journalists and press freedom groups condemned the act, and a police complaint was filed.
- Warning to the government (2025): In October 2025, Basnet publicly cautioned the government against conducting retaliatory investigations or surveillance of his activities following the protests.
- Recent political activity (October 2025): Despite mounting controversies, Basnet remains active in national politics. He has warned of potential nationwide unrest if CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli is targeted by authorities and recently engaged in a public dispute with Education Minister Mahabir Pun, who urged him to verify his claims.