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Nepal’s Political Crisis 2025: How Gen Z Protests Paved the Way for Kulman Ghising to Lead an Interim Government
Nepal is witnessing one of its most significant political upheavals in decades. A new wave of youth-led protests has transformed the political landscape, challenging entrenched elites and demanding transparency, accountability, and reform. This movement, driven largely by Gen Z, has already led to the resignation of the sitting Prime Minister and the withdrawal of high-profile contenders for the interim leadership. At the center of the public’s attention now stands Kulman Ghising, a respected technocrat known for his efficiency and clean image.
This article provides a comprehensive look at Nepal’s unfolding crisis — the causes, the key figures involved, and what the future may hold.
Backdrop of the Crisis
- Trigger: Discontent over corruption, nepotism, and controversial policies such as a social media ban sparked massive protests.
- Scale of Unrest: Thousands of young people took to the streets in Kathmandu and other major cities. Violent clashes with security forces resulted in dozens of casualties and hundreds of injuries.
- Government Response: The Prime Minister resigned amid mounting pressure, and the army stepped in to maintain order and facilitate talks for an interim administration.
Key Players in Nepal’s Transition
| Name | Background | Current Status in Interim Govt Selection |
|---|---|---|
| Kulman Ghising | Former head of Nepal Electricity Authority, widely credited with ending chronic power outages and improving the nation’s energy infrastructure. Seen as a competent, non-political figure with a clean image. | Emerging as the consensus choice to lead the interim government. |
| Sushila Karki | Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, admired for her judicial integrity and anti-corruption stance. Initially supported by some youth groups. | Withdrew her name from consideration due to constitutional and eligibility issues. |
| Balen Shah | Popular mayor of Kathmandu, engineer and rapper, widely celebrated by young Nepalis for breaking the mold of traditional politics. | Stepped back from interim leadership to continue his work as mayor, avoiding national-level political entanglements. |
Why Gen Z Matters in Nepal’s Political Shift
Nepal’s youth are no longer passive observers of politics. With access to social media and heightened awareness of governance failures, Gen Z has become a formidable political force. Key characteristics of this movement:
- Digital Mobilization: Protests were organized, publicized, and sustained online, circumventing traditional political channels.
- Non-Partisan Demand for Change: The youth are less tied to legacy parties and more focused on competency, honesty, and results.
- Consensus for Technocrats: Support is growing for leaders like Kulman Ghising who are perceived as doers rather than politicians.
Table: Main Demands of the Protest Movement
| Demand | Description |
|---|---|
| End Corruption | Transparent governance, audits of major projects, and stronger anti-graft measures. |
| Youth Representation | Inclusion of younger voices in policymaking and interim administration. |
| Economic Reform | Job creation, better management of public enterprises, and fair opportunities for entrepreneurs. |
| Digital Freedom | Reversal of restrictive laws on social media and online speech. |
| Roadmap for Elections | Clear timeline for free and fair elections under a neutral interim government. |
Why Kulman Ghising Is the Front-Runner
Kulman Ghising’s popularity stems from his proven track record as an administrator. As the head of the Nepal Electricity Authority, he dramatically reduced power cuts — a long-standing national frustration. Unlike career politicians, Ghising is seen as a technocrat whose decisions are based on data and merit rather than patronage.
With Sushila Karki and Balen Shah stepping aside, Ghising now represents a consensus candidate acceptable to both youth activists and institutional stakeholders such as the army and the presidency.
Challenges Ahead for the Interim Government
Even if Ghising is appointed, challenges remain:
- Constitutional Legitimacy: Ensuring the process of appointment follows Nepal’s constitution to avoid legal disputes.
- Managing Expectations: The protest movement’s hopes are high; failure to deliver quickly could lead to renewed unrest.
- Balancing Interests: Satisfying both protest groups and traditional political actors will be critical for stability.
- Transition Plan: Establishing a clear timeline and scope for elections and reforms during the interim period.
Potential Impact on Nepal’s Future
If executed well, this transition could set a historic precedent for Nepal:
- A shift toward technocratic leadership.
- Enhanced youth participation in governance.
- Greater accountability and transparency in public administration.
However, missteps could lead to disillusionment and further unrest. The next few months will therefore be pivotal in shaping Nepal’s political future.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Gen Z leading the protests in Nepal?
Because young people are the most affected by unemployment, corruption, and restrictive policies. They demand a new style of governance that delivers results.
Q2: Who is Kulman Ghising?
A respected technocrat, formerly head of the Nepal Electricity Authority, known for ending load-shedding and improving public utilities.
Q3: What happened to Sushila Karki and Balen Shah?
Both were initially seen as potential interim leaders but withdrew for legal, political, or personal reasons, consolidating support for Ghising.
Q4: What happens next?
Discussions among protest leaders, the president, and the army are ongoing to finalize an interim leader and set a timeline for elections.
Conclusion
Nepal’s political crisis marks a turning point where the country’s youth have not only protested but also directly influenced the process of leadership selection. With Kulman Ghising poised to lead an interim government, Nepal could be entering a new era of governance focused on competence and integrity. The coming months will show whether this moment leads to lasting change or becomes another missed opportunity.