In the quiet, high-altitude reaches of Humla’s Limi Valley, the rhythm of life is changing. For Tashi Lhazom, a prominent storyteller and climate activist, these changes are not just statistics—they are personal stories of erratic rainfall and disappearing snow that threaten the very fabric of indigenous life. Today, Lhazom is taking those stories from the mountains to the political stage, emerging as a powerful symbol of resilience and indigenous representation in Nepal.
A Storyteller for the Earth
Lhazom has long been recognized as a defender of human rights and the environment. Her work goes beyond simple advocacy; she uses the medium of film and narrative to document the climate crisis through an indigenous lens. By focusing on the high-altitude regions of Karnali, she highlights how climate change disproportionately affects those who have contributed the least to it, particularly indigenous women who often face layers of exclusion and discrimination.
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Stepping Into the Political Arena
In a significant shift from grassroots activism to formal governance, Lhazom recently joined the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP). She has been recommended for the party’s Proportional Representation (PR) list for the upcoming House of Representatives elections, specifically representing the Indigenous Nationalities (Adivasi Janajati) cluster for the Karnali province.
Her name now sits alongside other high-profile figures like cricketer Gyanendra Malla and singer Prakash Saput, signaling a new era for the RSP as it seeks to integrate diverse, influential voices into its leadership.
Resilience Amidst the Storm
Lhazom’s rise has not been without its challenges. Her transition into politics sparked intense public debate and made her the target of racist online attacks and xenophobia. Critics and online groups questioned her suitability for office, often targeting her indigenous identity and spreading false claims about her Nepali citizenship.
Earlier in her career, Lhazom was even considered for the role of Minister for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens. however, her appointment was stalled following controversies regarding her alleged involvement in the “Free Tibet” campaign and disputes over her citizenship documents. Despite these hurdles, Lhazom has remained steadfast. Supported by youth groups and fellow activists, she continues to defend her right to represent her community, turning political backlash into a platform for social justice.
Connecting Grassroots to Governance
At her core, Tashi Lhazom serves as a bridge. She connects the grassroots experiences of the Limi Valley with the broader political and environmental concerns of the nation. Her journey reminds us that climate leadership is inseparable from the fight for indigenous rights. As she moves forward with the RSP, her presence in the political sphere ensures that the voices of the mountains are no longer just echoes, but are heard clearly in the halls of power.
Also Read:
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Analogy for Understanding: Tashi Lhazom’s role is much like a woven bridge over a mountain river; she is made of the local materials and traditions of her home (her indigenous roots), yet she provides the essential path for the community to cross over into the wider world of national policy and global climate action.
Krishna Paksha Thapa, (with a stage name KanxeY) is an author, artist and a storyteller from Nepal Based in Israel with a passion for design, art and illustration. Discover his artworks, stories, and creative journey at Kanxey.com.
(Blog - www.krishnathapa.com)
