Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising: From Protests to Political Shift

Kathmandu – A wave of unrest swept through Nepal in September 2025, ignited by the frustration of a generation demanding change. What began as peaceful protests quickly escalated into a challenge to the established political order, resulting in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and a shift in the nation’s political landscape. This article examines the events that unfolded, the motivations behind the uprising and the potential for lasting change in Nepal.

The Spark: A Generation’s Discontent

The protests were fueled by widespread anger over corruption, nepotism, and a perceived lack of opportunity for young people in Nepal. The hashtag #Nepobaby became a rallying cry, exposing the lavish lifestyles of the children of political elites even as many young Nepalis struggled to find meaningful employment. This discontent was amplified when authorities restricted access to social media platforms, seen by many as a suppression of free expression.

From Peaceful Protest to Violent Clashes

Mukesh Awasthi, a 22-year-old civil sub-engineer with dreams of studying in Australia, embodies the aspirations of this generation. He joined the “Generation Z” protests on September 8, 2025, hoping to peacefully voice his demands. But, the situation quickly turned violent when police opened fire on protesters. Awasthi was shot in the left leg, an injury that ultimately led to amputation.

Escalation and Political Fallout

The shooting of protesters on September 8th triggered a surge in fury. The following day, protesters stormed government buildings, including Parliament and the residences of politicians. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was evacuated by military helicopter and subsequently resigned. Awasthi, along with other injured protesters like Pawan Shahi and Krishna Sunuwar, became symbols of the uprising. Over 70 people were killed during the 48-hour period of unrest.

Demands for Justice and Accountability

Following the unrest, activists like Pema Lama have been pushing for an open investigation into the shootings and accountability for those responsible, including former Prime Minister Oli and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak. They are also advocating for a more transparent and digitally-driven governance system. Awasthi specifically demands punishment for those he believes gave the orders to fire upon protesters.

A New Generation in Power?

The recent elections saw a victory for the Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP), a new anti-corruption party founded a few years ago. Rap artist Balen Shah, the leader of the RSP, is now poised to become prime minister. The RSP’s success reflects the desire for change among the Nepali electorate. The election also saw some members of Gen Z elected to parliament, offering a direct voice for the younger generation.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Despite the political shift, challenges remain. Many young Nepalis continue to leave the country in search of better opportunities, with significant numbers migrating to the Gulf countries, South Korea, and Japan. Sushmita Tuladhar, a 20-year-old from a village outside Kathmandu, exemplifies this trend, planning to work as a barista in Dubai. Activists are now focused on ensuring the newly elected officials address Gen Z’s demands and establish a Gen Z council to connect young people directly with the government.

Mukesh Awasthi’s Journey

Despite losing his leg, Mukesh Awasthi remains hopeful. He is undergoing rehabilitation and aims to complete his engineering studies in Australia. While he acknowledges regret over his initial decision to protest, he believes the election results offer a chance for positive change. He continues to seek justice for the events of September 8th and a future where corruption is addressed and opportunities are available for all young Nepalis.