How I Helped Bring Down the Government in Just 48 Hours: Nepal’s Gen-Z Protests Against Political Corruption

Nepal’s recent protests have made headlines, shaking the foundations of the government and thrusting the nation into turmoil. Just last week, a wave of demonstrations led by the younger generation erupted, resulting in tragedies and massive upheaval.

Tanuja Pandey, one of the protest organizers, summed it up: “We are proud, but there’s also trauma, regret, and anger.” The protests turned deadly with 72 lives lost, marking one of the bloodiest uprisings in recent history. In just a couple of days, demonstrators set fire to key locations including the prime minister’s office and the Hilton Hotel, which just opened this July.

Ashish Pradhan from the International Crisis Group noted that the protests highlight a deep discontent with decades of poor governance. The damage, he pointed out, could rival the devastation of the 2015 earthquake that claimed thousands of lives. According to the Kathmandu Post, the financial toll might reach 3 trillion Nepalese rupees, roughly $21.3 billion—almost half of the nation’s GDP.

The protests were driven by a rejection of the ruling class, often referred to as “nepo babies”—the children of powerful politicians flaunting their wealth on social media. For many young Nepalis, this inequality is infuriating. These frustrations boiled over after the government’s recent ban on 26 social media platforms, further stoking anger against corruption.

Tanuja uploaded a video just days before the protests, urging her peers to fight against the misuse of the country’s resources. She lamented the stark contrast between the lavish lifestyles of the elite and the struggles of ordinary citizens. Nepal’s economy remains challenged, with a GDP per capita under $1,500. One-third of households depend on remittances from family members working abroad.

The protests started peacefully. Tanuja and her friend Aakriti described enjoying songs and catchy slogans. However, things took a violent turn as infiltrators started appearing in the crowd, escalating tensions. The police responded with tear gas and live rounds, leading to chaos and destruction.

As protests escalated, the army was deployed, enforcing a curfew to restore order. In the aftermath, Sushila Karki, a respected former chief justice, was appointed interim prime minister. Many young Nepalis hope she can guide the country towards a more stable future.

Still, the shocking violence left its mark. Families of the deceased are grappling with the loss of their loved ones, like Yubaraj Neupane, whose son Yogendra was tragically killed. His family reflects on the noble goal he pursued—fighting for change.

The protests signify more than just unrest; they represent a political awakening among the youth. Tanuja expressed hope mixed with painful memories, stating, “We are no longer willing to stay silent or accept injustice.” This generation is ready to challenge a system that has held power for far too long.

Additional insights from experts paint a complex picture of Nepal’s political landscape. Romila Sen from Columbia University points out a concerning trend: a rising view of the army as a stabilizing force, which could have long-term consequences for democracy.

In short, what’s happening in Nepal is more than a protest; it’s a turning point. The voices of the young generation are growing louder, and they are pressing for meaningful change.



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