Gen Z student protesters in Nepal have issued a collective appeal for political transformation following the tragic deaths of at least 19 demonstrators during the recent nationwide protests.
The movement, driven by young citizens, is demanding accountability, justice, and a complete overhaul of the political system amid allegations of corruption and government repression.
The protests erupted after the government imposed a blanket ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, YouTube, and Signal, citing concerns over misinformation and online hate speech.
However, critics have argued that the shutdown was a deliberate attempt to suppress dissent after online content exposing nepotism, corruption, and misuse of power went viral.
In their appeal, the Gen Z protesters stated, “We students, representing the force of human consciousness, have been compelled to come to the streets due to the state’s blanket ban on digital communication, systematic corruption, and the government’s insensitivity towards democratic values.”
They strongly condemned the state’s violent response, adding, “Suppressing peaceful protests with bullets has shaken the entire Nepali society. The massacre of 22 Nepali youths by the state has ignited anger and grief across the country. History bears witness that no unjust power has lasted forever.”
The appeal further outlines their proposals for change. They call for the formation of an interim government under neutral and common leadership acceptable to all citizens, rejecting any participation from the current rulers, parliamentarians, or political figures tainted by corruption.
They demand that political restructuring be undertaken by an elected Constituent Assembly tasked with drafting a new framework for governance, law-making, and state restructuring.
The protesters also proposed the formation of a powerful citizen commission to review all services, decisions, and appointments made since 2001 and restructure the state accordingly.
An independent, high-level citizen commission comprising experts, impartial individuals, and Gen Z representatives should investigate corruption and ensure accountability in public institutions.
Additionally, they urged the creation of a Truth and Accountability Commission to investigate corruption and misuse of public property and pursue legal action against wrongdoers.
The government’s use of lethal force against demonstrators, including live ammunition, has drawn condemnation from international human rights organisations, which have called for independent investigations.
Amid escalating unrest, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on September 9, 2025, and the Nepali Army has imposed a nationwide curfew to restore order.
The Gen Z movement has become a powerful force in Nepal’s political landscape, symbolizing a collective awakening for justice, transparency, and democratic reform. As the appeal concludes, the protesters urge fellow citizens, farmers, workers, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens to join the movement, stating, “From today onward, Nepali society can no longer remain silent spectators.”
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