Veteran mountaineer Phurba Gyalge Sherpa has been elected as the new President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), securing victory over rival candidate Kul Bahadur Gurung in the election held on Saturday, August 23 (Bhadra 7, 2082).
Sherpa, a respected figure in Nepal’s mountaineering and tourism sector, ran his campaign on the pillars of safety, sustainability, and transparency. His decisive win reflects strong support from members who share his vision for a professional, eco-conscious, and community-centered approach to Himalayan tourism.
Vision for Safety and Sustainability
Throughout his campaign, Sherpa pledged to prioritize the welfare and dignity of climbers, proposing an emergency rescue fund to provide rapid financial and logistical support in case of high-altitude accidents, avalanches, or medical emergencies. He also vowed to establish an international-standard mountaineering training center, aimed at producing highly skilled climbers, guides, and expedition leaders while integrating modern safety and environmental conservation methods.
Sherpa’s environmental agenda includes stronger waste management measures along trekking and climbing routes, developed in partnership with local communities, and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism practices to protect Nepal’s fragile mountain ecosystems. His campaign also stressed the preservation of Himalayan culture and traditions, ensuring that tourism growth benefits both visitors and local residents.
Commitment to Transparency and Institutional Integrity
A key component of Sherpa’s leadership vision is institutional transparency within NMA. He promised fair, accountable governance with open decision-making processes, ethical financial management, and inclusive policy formulation. This approach resonated strongly with NMA members and stakeholders seeking professional and credible leadership in Nepal’s mountaineering sector.
Building a Global Himalayan Brand
Looking ahead, Sherpa plans to position Nepal’s mountains as a globally recognized adventure and tourism brand by hosting international events, fostering collaborations with foreign expedition operators, and promoting the unique culture and natural beauty of the Himalayas to the world.
A Clean Sweep for Sherpa’s Panel
In addition to Phurba Gyalge Sherpa’s victory as President, most of his panel’s candidates secured wins across key positions, demonstrating overwhelming member support for his leadership agenda. Out of the entire executive lineup, only First Vice President Mingma Gyangbu Sherpa and Treasurer Sumi Lama were from rival candidate Kul Bahadur Gurung’s panel. All other winning candidates, including senior executives and members, represented Sherpa’s team, underscoring a decisive mandate for his vision of safety, sustainability, and transparency in the Nepal Mountaineering Association.
| Position | Candidate Name(s) | Votes Obtained | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| President | Phurba Gyalge Sherpa | 342 | Elected (Winner) |
| Senior Vice President | Ishwori Paudel | 345 | Elected (Winner) |
| First Vice President | Mingma Gyangbu Sherpa | 359 | Elected (Winner) |
| Second Vice President | Bodraj Bhandari | 368 | Elected (Winner) |
| General Secretary | Rajendra Bahadur Lama | 318 | Elected (Winner) |
| Secretary | Chandan Thapa | 358 | Elected (Winner) |
| Treasurer | Ngima Nurbu Sherpa | 304 | Tie – will serve half term each |
| Sumi Lama | 304 | Tie – will serve half term each | |
| Member | Madhav Kumar Dhamala | 278 | |
| Member | Kedar Neupane | 302 | |
| Member | Thupden Sherpa | 326 | |
| Member | Gokul Thapa | 288 | |
| Member | Mulaal Gurung | 351 | |
| Member | Dendi Sherpa | 311 | |
| Member | Bikram Karki | 306 | |
| Member | Rinje Sherpa | 301 | |
| Member | Devendra Dangol | 295 | |
| Member | Diki Sherpa | 288 | |
| Member | Nisha Bhote | 307 |
For the position of Treasurer, Ngima Nurbu Sherpa and Sumi Lama each secured 304 votes. As the election resulted in a tie, it was agreed, through a mutual understanding and the draw of lots, that both candidates would share the tenure, each serving half of the term.
Sherpa’s sweeping victory not only consolidates his mandate but also sets the stage for a transformative chapter in the NMA’s history. With the election now concluded, Sherpa and his newly elected executive team face the task of delivering on their promises. The focus will be on implementing safety measures, expanding training programs, promoting eco-friendly tourism, and enhancing NMA’s global standing.
Sherpa’s landslide win not only reflects the community’s trust in his vision but also sets a new course for Nepal’s mountaineering future, one that seeks to balance adventure, conservation, and cultural preservation for generations to come.
