Gen Z activists in Nepal are frustrated with leaders they helped bring to power

Young protesters who forced Nepal's interim government into power say it has not delivered on anti‑corruption promises and many have returned to the streets in renewed demonstrations; the interim prime minister says elections are planned for March 5.

Protests that began in September against corruption and a social media ban led to the collapse of Nepal's previous government and the appointment of Sushila Karki as interim prime minister with a mandate to organize new parliamentary elections. Many of the young demonstrators who helped bring that interim government to power are now publicly criticizing its performance and have staged fresh protests. Officials say preparations are under way to hold elections on March 5. Analysts note the youth movement includes multiple groups with differing demands, which has complicated efforts to press a single agenda. Key facts: - Tens of thousands of young demonstrators gathered in September and the unrest led to the formation of an interim government headed by Sushila Karki. - Some protesters and activists say promised anti‑corruption actions and accountability for the use of force have not been delivered, and demonstrations have resumed in recent weeks. - The interim government says it is preparing to hold parliamentary elections on March 5 and that the security situation has improved. - Gen Z groups are not unified: some want immediate legal action against past leaders, while others prioritize holding new elections. Summary: The youth movement that helped bring the interim government to office is now challenging that government for not fulfilling core promises, and renewed street protests have followed. Elections are scheduled for March 5, and political tensions and disagreements among protest groups make the period ahead uncertain.