Nepal Protests: How Gen Z Took on the Government and What Happens Next

The political landscape of Nepal has been dramatically reshaped in recent months, following widespread protests sparked by youth frustration with corruption and economic hardship. What began as demonstrations led by a new generation – dubbed “Gen Z” – escalated into a full-blown political crisis, culminating in the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli in September 2025 and a recent election that has brought a new force to power.

The catalyst for the unrest was a growing sense of disillusionment among young Nepalis, many of whom feel excluded from economic opportunities and burdened by a political system perceived as entrenched and corrupt. This discontent boiled over in early September, fueled by social media campaigns highlighting the lavish lifestyles of the children of political elites – a trend dubbed #Nepobaby. The government’s subsequent attempt to shut down popular social media platforms only served to further inflame tensions.

Mukesh Awasthi, a 22-year-old student preparing to study engineering in Australia, found himself at the center of the unfolding drama. Instead of traveling directly from his part-time job, Awasthi joined the protests outside Parliament on September 8th, drawn by a desire to participate in the movement for change. The situation quickly turned violent when police clashed with demonstrators. Awasthi was struck by a live bullet during the confrontation, resulting in the amputation of his leg.

“I thought I was hit by a rubber bullet,” Awasthi recalled, describing the moment he realized the severity of his injury. “Then I looked down, and my leg was full of blood.” His experience became a symbol of the government’s heavy-handed response to the protests and fueled further outrage.

The protests reached a fever pitch on September 9th, with demonstrators storming government buildings, including Parliament, and setting some ablaze. The violence prompted the evacuation of Prime Minister Oli by military helicopter, and he subsequently resigned. More than 70 people were killed during the 48-hour period of intense unrest, according to reports.

Geeta Sah, a 48-year-old shopkeeper in Kathmandu, also suffered severe injuries during the protests. While attempting to mediate between protesters and police, she was struck by acid thrown by demonstrators intended for law enforcement. She remains hospitalized with extensive burns, a testament to the brutal nature of the clashes. “I had stepped out to watch the protest,” Sah recounted. “When the police fired warning shots, the protesters set the post on fire.”

The aftermath of the protests saw a surge in emigration, as young Nepalis sought opportunities abroad. Over half of Nepal’s 30 million citizens are under 30, and remittances from those working overseas are a crucial component of the national economy. Sushmita Tuladhar, a 20-year-old resident of a village outside Kathmandu, exemplifies this trend, planning to work as a barista in Dubai.

The recent elections have brought a new political force to the forefront: the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), led by rapper-turned-politician Balen Shah. Shah, a former engineer who was elected mayor of Kathmandu in 2022 as an independent candidate, has tapped into the widespread desire for change and anti-corruption measures. Aakruti Awasthi, the sister of Mukesh Awasthi, is set to become a member of parliament representing the RSP, a development that underscores the party’s connection to the protest movement.

The RSP’s rise to power has been met with cautious optimism by activists like Pema Lama, a political activist representing the Tibetan minority in Nepal. While welcoming the presence of young voices in parliament, Lama expressed reservations about the party’s broad appeal potentially diluting its focus on specific Gen Z demands. “It’s more of a political wave that people have voted for,” she said. “Instead of choosing individual candidates who can represent our issues and the spirit of Gen Z, people have voted for a party.”

One of the first actions taken by the new government has been the establishment of a Gen Z council, intended to provide a direct link between young people and government decision-making. Activists are now focused on ensuring that this council has real influence and can effectively advocate for their priorities: greater transparency, accountability, and opportunities for Nepal’s youth.

Despite the political shifts, Mukesh Awasthi remains ambivalent about the future. While acknowledging the positive change brought about by the election, he expressed lingering doubts about the pace of reform. “I am extremely happy with who won,” he said. “Now it will be easier for Gen Z to get their demands met.” However, he also admitted to regretting his decision to participate in the protests, questioning whether the sacrifices made were worth the outcome. “I didn’t get justice. Corruption is not gone. Gen Z has not yet gotten justice,” he stated. “I regret it today.”

As Nepal navigates this period of political transition, the demands of its young people – for a more just, equitable, and transparent society – will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of the national conversation.