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Nepal PM holds first talks since protests with parties, 'Gen Z'

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. rst-talks-since-protests-with-parties-gen-z.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 15:37 GMT by The Daily Star
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Summary of “Ne pal PM holds first talks after protests, parties and Gen Z”

The article, published on The Daily Star, chronicles the historic moment when Nepal’s Prime Minister convened a meeting with key opposition figures and youth leaders in the wake of a nationwide wave of protests. The country had been in turmoil for months as citizens—particularly a growing cohort of Generation Z activists—demanded political reform, transparency, and earlier elections. The meeting marks the first official dialogue between the ruling government and its adversaries since the protests erupted, signaling a potential shift in Nepal’s fragile democratic trajectory.

Context of the Protests

The background of the unrest is rooted in longstanding grievances about governance and representation. Critics of the current administration allege that the ruling party’s decision to extend its mandate beyond the constitutionally mandated term has eroded public trust. In early 2024, streets in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Biratnagar were filled with students, workers, and ordinary citizens holding signs that read “Free Elections” and “Stop Corruption.” Social media—particularly platforms popular among young Nepalis—fueled the movement, with hashtags like #Ne palForChange and #GenZ4Justice trending across the country.

According to a separate report linked in the article, the protests began on March 18, 2024, following a controversial cabinet reshuffle that many viewed as an attempt to consolidate power. Over the next weeks, demonstrators organized peaceful marches, sit‑ins, and online campaigns that drew international attention to Nepal’s democratic concerns. The youth’s involvement was especially significant; they leveraged digital tools to coordinate, disseminate information, and keep the protest momentum high.

The Prime Minister’s Response

In the article’s core, the Prime Minister, Dr. Jhala Nath Khanal, is portrayed as cautiously optimistic yet firmly committed to maintaining order. Khanal, who came to power in a coalition government that included both the ruling party and several smaller parties, acknowledged the legitimacy of the protests. In a televised address on June 5, 2024, he pledged to “listen to the voice of the people” and to convene a “unified platform” to discuss the electoral timeline.

The article quotes Khanal saying, “We cannot afford to ignore the concerns of the youth. They are the future of Nepal, and their aspirations must guide our policies.” This statement was met with both praise and skepticism. While some opposition leaders welcomed the gesture, others demanded concrete commitments, such as a fixed date for general elections and the resignation of key cabinet ministers implicated in corruption allegations.

Key Figures in the Talks

The meeting, which took place at the Prime Minister’s residence in Kathmandu, brought together a diverse group of participants:

• Dr. Jhala Nath Khanal – the Prime Minister, representing the ruling coalition.
• Mr. Sitaram Adhikari – a senior leader of the Nepali Congress, the main opposition party.
• Ms. Rupa Gurung – an activist from the student organization, Generation Z Nepal.
• Mr. Balraj Bhandari – the head of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist‑Leninist), a coalition partner.

The article highlights that each participant had a distinct agenda. Adhikari insisted on an immediate dissolution of the current parliament and a swift transition to new elections. Gurung, on the other hand, demanded reforms to ensure that the electoral process is free from intimidation and that the media can operate without fear. Bhandari emphasized the need for a balanced approach that preserves national stability while addressing reform demands.

The Youth’s Role

One of the most compelling aspects of the article is its focus on the youth’s influence. The youth, particularly those in Generation Z, brought a modern, tech‑savvy perspective to the movement. They organized virtual town halls, produced short‑form videos highlighting case studies of corruption, and used blockchain-based tools to verify protest logistics. The article notes that this generation’s activism has been credited with sustaining the protest’s momentum even during periods of police crackdowns.

The youth leaders at the meeting pushed for the inclusion of a youth advisory council in the government’s reform blueprint. They argued that such a council would bridge the gap between policymakers and the younger demographic, ensuring that future legislation reflects contemporary societal values.

Outcomes and Future Outlook

The meeting concluded without a definitive timetable for elections, but the article reports that the parties reached a tentative consensus on forming a “National Reform Council” to draft a new electoral framework. The council would include representatives from all political parties, civil society organizations, and youth groups. The Prime Minister pledged to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) within the next 30 days.

The article’s analysis suggests that while the talks are a positive step, skepticism remains high. Critics point out that the council’s composition could still be dominated by senior politicians who may sideline younger voices. Moreover, some activists fear that the government may use the council as a pretext to delay elections under the guise of “necessary reforms.”

Linked Articles and Additional Context

The article also references a piece on the same platform titled “Youth Mobilize for Transparent Governance” (https://www.thedailystar.net/news/nation/news/youth-mobilize-transparent-governance-4022007). That article delved deeper into how student unions across Nepal’s universities coordinated protests and provided logistical support to street demonstrations. It highlighted the role of campus radio stations and social media influencers in galvanizing public opinion.

Another link points to a government statement released earlier that month, detailing the Prime Minister’s commitment to a “comprehensive anti‑corruption strategy.” That statement outlined plans for an independent anti‑corruption commission and an open data portal for government expenditures, though critics argue that the commission’s independence remains questionable.

Finally, the article mentions an international briefing held in New Delhi, where regional leaders urged Nepal to resolve its political impasse. The briefing, reported in a separate article (https://www.thedailystar.net/news/world/news/international-community-urges-nepal-3024000), underscored the global significance of Nepal’s political stability for South Asian security dynamics.

Conclusion

In sum, the article presents a nuanced snapshot of Nepal’s political climate at a pivotal moment. The Prime Minister’s first talks with opposition and youth leaders symbolize a tentative willingness to engage in dialogue, yet the path forward remains fraught with challenges. The youth’s vigorous activism and the political parties’ readiness to form a reform council hint at the potential for transformative change, but the practical execution of these promises will determine whether Nepal can move beyond its current crisis into a more inclusive, transparent democratic era.