Nepal Gen-Z to form new political party, puts conditions to contest 2026 elections

International News: A major change was seen in Nepal in the month of September. Gen-Z supporters had brought down the government of KP Sharma Oli. Sushila Karki is currently in power and serving as the Interim Prime Minister of Nepal. However, another big shift is about to take place in the country’s politics. On Saturday, the Gen-Z group announced the formation of its own political party — a move that has created tension among all political parties and leaders. They also made it clear that they will contest next year’s general elections only if the government fulfills certain “essential conditions.”

This is the same group that had led a massive movement against corruption and the government’s ban on social media. These protests had forced then–Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign. Addressing a press conference in Kathmandu, Gen-Z group leader Miraj Dhungana said that their party would unite the voices of Nepal’s youth. He said, “Our goal is clear — to fight for good governance, transparency, and accountability. We will not let the sacrifices of the youth go in vain.”

What Are Dhungana’s Demands?

Elections in Nepal are scheduled to be held on March 5, 2026. The youth-led group had held protests last month against corruption and the government’s ban on social media sites, which eventually led to the fall of KP Sharma Oli’s government. “Gen-Z” refers to the generation born between 1997 and 2012. Dhungana stated that their party will contest the elections only if the government implements a directly elected executive system and grants voting rights to Nepali citizens living abroad.

Why Did They Mention India?

Dhungana also demanded the formation of a public-led investigation committee to probe corruption and called for a new policy of economic reform. He said, “Nepal’s economy has stagnated because millions of young people are going abroad in search of employment. The previous governments are responsible for this.” Dhungana also emphasized the need to increase Nepal’s production capacity. He said, “We are located between two countries with huge populations — India and China. We need to expand our production keeping these neighboring markets in mind.” According to him, if Nepal increases its production, it can export goods to China and India. The young leader also urged the interim government to restart closed factories, create new employment opportunities, and revive the tourism sector. Nepal’s next general elections will be held on March 5, 2026, a date that was announced by President Ramchandra Paudel at the time of forming the new interim government.