Nepal's Gen Z Protests Against PM Balen Shah

Nepal's Gen Z, comprising primarily students and young people in their teens to late 20s, has taken to the streets to protest against Prime Minister Balendra (Balen) Shah. The protests, which began in September 2025, were initially triggered by immediate incidents but were rooted in deep-seated frustrations over governance, accountability, and economic opportunities.

The latest wave of protests was sparked by the death of a 25-year-old ride-sharing driver, Ganesh Nepali, who allegedly set himself on fire after Kathmandu Metropolitan City police locked the wheel of his motorcycle during an enforcement drive. This incident has ignited outrage across Nepal, with students and young protesters accusing the authorities of excessive and insensitive policing.

The protests have quickly spread, reigniting broader concerns about the government's approach to law enforcement and public accountability. The youth who helped bring Prime Minister Balen Shah to power are now directing their anger at him, criticizing his administration's aggressive enforcement policies.

Balen Shah, who rose to prominence as Kathmandu's mayor in 2022 before becoming Prime Minister, built his political appeal on promises of clean governance, accountability, and decisive action. However, critics argue that his administration's policies have alienated many of the young voters who once saw him as a symbol of change.

During his tenure as mayor, Shah launched a series of anti-encroachment drives targeting pavements, informal street markets, and riverside settlements. While supporters viewed these actions as necessary for urban reform, critics argued that they disproportionately affected vulnerable communities and frequently led to confrontations.

The protests have also revived scrutiny of the powers exercised by Kathmandu Metropolitan City's municipal police. The city enacted the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Municipal Police Act, 2023, outlining the force's responsibilities, including protecting municipal property, maintaining sanitation, safeguarding public parks, and assisting during local festivals.

The death of Ganesh Nepali has become a symbol of growing anger among Nepal's youth, who feel that the government is not addressing their concerns. The protests are a manifestation of the deep-seated frustrations that have been building up over time, and it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these demands.

Nepal's Gen Z protests have significant implications for the country's political landscape. The fact that the youth who supported Prime Minister Balen Shah are now protesting against him indicates a shift in public opinion. The government will need to address the concerns of the youth and take steps to restore trust and confidence in the administration.

In conclusion, the protests in Nepal are a reflection of the deep-seated frustrations among the country's youth. The government will need to take concrete steps to address these concerns and restore trust and confidence in the administration. The outcome of these protests will have significant implications for Nepal's political landscape and the future of its youth.