KATHMANDU: Chair of the CPN (Maoist Centre) Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has appealed to Nepal’s Gen-Z youth to seek a peaceful and democratic resolution to the ongoing political crisis, following the collapse of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s government after two days of mass protests.
In a lengthy public statement on Wednesday, Prachanda extended condolences to the young demonstrators killed during the protests and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
“I pay heartfelt tribute to all the youths who attained martyrdom in the movement launched by the Gen-Z generation in pursuit of good governance and democratic ideals,” he wrote, urging calm and dialogue.
Prachanda accused the now-ousted coalition of the Nepali Congress and UML of triggering the unrest through corruption, misgovernance, and a midnight alliance formed 14 months ago. He said the Oli-led administration responded to peaceful protests with brutal massacres and suppression, which fueled public anger.
“Instead of listening to the voices of youth, the government resorted to killings and repression. This led to tragic human losses,” Prachanda stated, adding that attempts to ban social media further alienated young people.
While acknowledging widespread vandalism, looting, and arson at Parliament, the President’s Office, Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, and security agencies’ offices during the protests, Prachanda insisted these acts were not carried out by Gen-Z demonstrators. He suggested that infiltrators and regressive elements hijacked the movement to undermine Nepal’s democratic gains.
“These incidents are inconsistent with the ideals of the Gen-Z protesters,” he said, calling for an independent judicial investigation into both the killings and the destruction of public property.
The Maoist Centre chair said, despite shortcomings, Nepal’s constitution remains one of the most inclusive in the region, securing rights for marginalized communities. He argued that any political exit must remain within the framework of the constitution.
“Democracy’s only alternative is deeper democracy. The alternative to the republic is a stronger republic,” Prachanda declared. He expressed support for some of the youth demands, such as stronger governance mechanisms, checks on corruption, and reforms to the parliamentary system, but said they must be pursued through constitutional amendments, not abolition.
Recalling his own role in the Maoist insurgency and subsequent peace process, Prachanda said his party continues to stand for transformation, justice, and inclusive governance. He urged people not to fall for “false propaganda” equating the Maoist Centre with parties resisting change.
Finally, he appealed for national unity against regressive conspiracies and praised the role of the President, the Nepali Army, and security agencies in maintaining order. “Even in adversity, we must remain hopeful about the future and firmly stand for the protection of the constitution and democracy,” he concluded.
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