Sudan Gurung, a prominent figure emerging from this month’s youth-protests/” title=”Nepal Restores Social Media Access Following Intense … Protests and Deadly Clashes”>youth protests, reveals to Al Jazeera his intention to contest the upcoming March elections, vowing to establish a youth-driven ‘people’s government’.
Sudan Gurung, who became the face of Nepal’s recent youth-led uprising that swiftly dismantled the government, has declared his candidacy for the general elections scheduled in March. He emphasized that his movement is committed to persevering until a government truly representing the people is formed.
In an exclusive conversation with Start Here host Sandra Gathmann, Gurung explained that his group is actively rallying supporters across Nepal to build a “movement for change” rather than establishing a conventional political party.
“The previous administration, riddled with selfishness and corruption, forced us into the political arena,” he remarked. “If politics is what they want, then politics is what they will get. We are entering the election because retreat is not an option.”
At 36 years old, Gurung gained recognition as the leader of a grassroots revolt predominantly driven by Nepal’s Generation Z.
The protests initially ignited in response to the government’s shutdown of social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube, citing the companies’ failure to comply with registration and regulatory demands.
However, the demonstrations quickly expanded into a wider movement fueled by frustration over alleged corruption, state-sponsored violence, and a culture of impunity. The clashes resulted in the deaths of dozens of young protesters and injuries to thousands more.
Confident in his movement’s readiness to govern, Gurung shared that volunteers have organized legal and communications teams and are collecting policy proposals nationwide through digital channels like Discord-used extensively during the protests-and Instagram.
He stressed the importance of ensuring “every Nepalese voice is acknowledged.”
Unwavering Resolve
Rather than running as an independent candidate, Gurung intends to participate in the elections as part of a collective.
“Running solo won’t harness the strength of our youth,” he explained. “Our power lies in unity.”
The movement’s platform extends beyond anti-corruption efforts, aiming to revitalize Nepal’s tourism industry and foster balanced diplomatic ties with neighboring India and China, free from external meddling.
“Mutual respect is essential-we respect them, and they must respect us,” Gurung asserted.
He expressed a desire to see the traditional political elite excluded from the March elections and called on interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki to expedite investigations into corruption and the killings of protesters.
“We will ensure these inquiries are thorough and timely, preventing those responsible from participating in the elections,” Gurung stated.
When questioned about his personal ambitions for the prime ministership, he responded, “I can’t claim to be the perfect candidate right now, but if the people choose me, I will definitely run.”
Gurung also revealed that he has faced efforts to intimidate and discourage him, including surveillance and threats.
Despite these challenges, he remains resolute.
“Fear does not control me. Eliminating me won’t solve anything,” he declared. “Saving my country is urgent-it’s a now-or-never moment.”
