In the aftermath of Nepal’s uprising, a growing section of Gen Z activists is seeking formal representation within the country’s new interim administration. Several youth leaders who mobilised the protests have jointly written to the interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Nepal Army and President Ram Chandra Poudel, asking that their representatives be accommodated in ministries to ensure the new generation's voices are part of decision-making.
The demand has reflected both the confidence and the disunity of the new generation, as other leaders have conveyed to the government that they can appoint whomever they think is right to run the government sincerely. Though, the groups momentarily united during the anti-corruption uprising, they are now splintering into diverse agendas.
Some want structural reforms in the country, while many are determined to preserve democracy and the Constitution. Their letter, however, underscores a common concern that without institutional recognition, Gen Z’s momentum will dissipate and older political elites could regain dominance.
An ex-government official said that the second-rung of leadership in the political parties can assert themselves now and regain the ground since the faces of their parties have been boycotted by the masses.
Political observers say the move is unprecedented. Nepal’s ministries have traditionally been led by career politicians and bureaucrats, not youth activists. Supporters argue that including Gen Z leaders could channel fresh energy and maintain public trust in the interim government.
“The revolution showed how much pent-up anger was among youth. But that doesn't mean they will not be able to be better helmsmen than their predecessors. Also, giving them space in ministries will ensure their concerns are not sidelined,” said a Kathmandu-based analyst.
Sceptics, however, warn that the demand could create further instability. Opposition parties already view the interim administration as unconstitutional, and appointing youth activists without an electoral mandate might fuel additional disputes within the political corridors of the country. Within Gen Z itself, disagreements remain over who should represent the movement and how accountability will be maintained.
Still, the appeal highlights a larger transformation: Nepal’s youth, once dismissed as politically apathetic, now see themselves as stakeholders in statecraft. Whether or not their demand is accepted, their assertiveness signals that the country’s politics will no longer be shaped without them anymore.