Kathmandu, Sept 10, 2025 – The GenZ protest in Nepal, a nationwide youth-led movement demanding accountability and an end to systemic corruption, has intensified into the country’s worst unrest in decades. While the protests briefly began amid the controversy over a social media ban, leaders stress that the core of the movement is against corruption, nepotism, and political impunity. The GenZ protest leaders now say their movement has been hijacked by opportunists exploiting the chaos, as the army enforces curfews across Kathmandu.
Army Patrols Amid GenZ Protest Unrest
The Nepal Army has deployed patrols in Kathmandu, establishing checkpoints and conducting ID checks on vehicles while urging residents to stay home. Nationwide curfews remain in effect, with authorities warning that looting, arson, and vandalism will face strict consequences.
Over 27 arrests have been made, and 31 firearms recovered during the unrest. Despite these measures, some young volunteers involved in the GenZ protest are cleaning streets and safeguarding public property, highlighting the peaceful intentions of the movement’s organizers.
GenZ Protest Youths Distance from Destruction
In official statements, GenZ protesters said their movement has always been non-violent. They focus on ending corruption, not causing destruction. Protestors claim that ‘infiltrators and opportunists’ exploited the unrest. These individuals vandalized government offices, including parliament, Singha Durbar, and the Supreme Court. The buildings were heavily damaged during the chaos.
The core of our protest is to demand a transparent and accountable government,” said a GenZ protest spokesperson. “We are working to protect citizens and public property while calling for justice and systemic reform.
Beyond Social Media: Fighting Corruption
The protest began after a controversial social media ban. However, it is mainly about long-standing political corruption in Nepal. Youths demand transparency and accountability from their leaders. The ‘Nepo Kid’ campaign exposed the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children. It also revealed their misuse of public resources. This campaign fueled widespread frustration across Nepal. Youth participants insist the GenZ protest is not about platforms like Instagram or WhatsApp—it is about demanding honest governance, competent leadership, and the eradication of political nepotism.
Casualties, Damage, and Public Reaction
The unrest has left at least 30 people dead, including protesters and security personnel, with over 1,000 injured nationwide. Protesters set fire to the home of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal, critically injuring his wife, while thousands of inmates escaped from prisons. Citizens expressed mixed reactions—some are hopeful for political reform, while others condemn the violence and destruction.
Demands for Independent Leadership
With Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigning amid the crisis, Nepal faces a leadership vacuum. GenZ protest leaders are calling for independent political figures, free from entrenched party affiliations, to lead the nation with integrity and competence.
Hope Amid Chaos
Despite destruction and casualties, many Nepalis remain hopeful. Protesters and citizens alike see the GenZ protest as a wake-up call for the political elite to reform. Volunteers continue to clean streets and protect public spaces, reflecting the peaceful and civic-minded intentions behind the youth-led movement.
The GenZ protest is reshaping Nepal’s fight against corruption. Stay updated with real-time news, insights, and verified reports from Mahagadhimainews.
