Young Activists Reshape Nepal’s Political Landscape Amidst Unrest
In a remarkable turn of events, a group of young activists in Nepal has emerged as pivotal players in the country’s political arena, following a series of protests that led to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. This unprecedented movement, largely organized through social media platforms, has not only toppled a government but has also set the stage for a new interim leadership, marking a significant moment in Nepal’s political history.
The Rise of Hami Nepal
At the forefront of this movement is Sudan Gurung, a 36-year-old former DJ and founder of the non-profit organization Hami Nepal, which translates to “We are Nepal.” Utilizing platforms like Discord and Instagram, Gurung and his team mobilized thousands of young people to participate in protests against government corruption and mismanagement. The protests escalated quickly, resulting in violent clashes that left at least 72 people dead and over 1,300 injured, as reported by local sources.
The group’s innovative use of technology played a crucial role in their success. By employing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass government restrictions on social media, Hami Nepal was able to disseminate information and rally support effectively. “I was invited to join a group on Discord where there were about 400 members. It asked us to join the protest march a few kilometers from the parliament,” recounted Karan Kulung Rai, an 18-year-old student who participated in the protests.
A New Interim Leadership
Following the protests, Hami Nepal’s influence grew significantly, culminating in the appointment of Sushila Karki as Nepal’s first female interim prime minister. Karki, a former Chief Justice known for her anti-corruption stance, was chosen to lead the country until elections are scheduled for March 5, 2026. This decision was reportedly made after consultations between Gurung, Karki, and other key figures, highlighting the newfound power of the youth-led movement.
In a press conference, Gurung stated, “I will make sure that the power lies with the people and bring every corrupt politician to justice.” His commitment to transparency and accountability resonates with a generation that has grown increasingly disillusioned with traditional political structures.
The Protests: A Catalyst for Change
The protests that led to the government’s downfall were sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s handling of various issues, including corruption and the ban on multiple social media platforms. The initial directive to restrict access to these platforms was later reversed, but not before it ignited a wave of protests that swept across the nation.
The movement has been characterized as a “Gen Z” uprising, with most participants in their 20s. This demographic shift in activism is reminiscent of other global movements, such as the Arab Spring and the Black Lives Matter protests, where young people have taken to the streets to demand change. The protests in Nepal, however, are unique in their reliance on digital platforms for organization and communication.
The Role of Social Media
Hami Nepal’s early social media posts gained traction to the extent that they were referenced on national television, amplifying their message and drawing in more supporters. The group also took proactive measures to combat misinformation, labeling certain messages as “fake news” and providing essential information, such as hospital contact numbers, to those affected by the violence.
The rapid growth of Hami Nepal’s social media following-now exceeding 160,000 on Instagram-demonstrates the power of digital platforms in modern activism. Gurung and his team have effectively harnessed these tools to create a sense of community and urgency among young people, who are increasingly seeking to influence the political landscape.
A Vision for the Future
Despite their newfound influence, Gurung and his team have expressed a desire to remain outside of traditional political roles. “We don’t want to be politicians,” said Ronesh Pradhan, a 26-year-old volunteer for Hami Nepal. “Sudan Gurung was only helping the ‘Gen Z’ group, and we are only the voice of the nation.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend among young activists who are wary of the political establishment and seek to enact change from the outside.
Gurung’s background as a DJ and his previous humanitarian efforts during the 2015 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic have shaped his approach to leadership. His focus on civic engagement and community support has resonated with a generation that values authenticity and grassroots activism.
Challenges Ahead
As Hami Nepal continues to play a central role in shaping the interim government, challenges remain. The group is currently engaged in discussions about key cabinet positions and the removal of officials appointed by the previous administration. “Meetings are ongoing between Karki and members of the group. We will finalize the cabinet soon,” a member of Hami Nepal stated.
The path forward will require careful navigation of Nepal’s complex political landscape, which has been marred by instability and corruption for decades. Gurung and his team are aware of the need for systemic change, with Thapa emphasizing the importance of an independent judiciary. “We may need some changes to the constitution, but we don’t want to dissolve the constitution,” he noted.
Conclusion
The recent upheaval in Nepal serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for youth-led movements to effect change in entrenched political systems. As Sudan Gurung and Hami Nepal continue to shape the future of the country, their commitment to transparency, accountability, and civic engagement will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead. The world will be watching as this new generation of leaders strives to redefine governance in Nepal, ensuring that the power truly lies with the people.
