KATHMANDU: Tensions have flared at a press conference by Sudan Gurung, coordinator of “Hami Nepal,” when Gen-Z youth and journalists confronted him at the Reporters’ Club in Kathmandu on Sunday.
Angry youths accused Gurung of failing to secure enough achievements despite the loss of nearly 70 lives during the protests. Some even climbed onto the stage, forcing Reporters’ Club chair Rishi Dhamala to intervene and shield Gurung.
Gurung, who has faced accusations of being a “foreign agent,” rejected such claims, insisting he is Nepali and not linked to India or any external group. “Do not call me an Indian. I am the son of Nepal,” he said.
He claimed that while the Gen-Z movement brought change, violence such as arson was instigated by political party members, not by his group. He further warned that any government not listening to their demands would eventually collapse.
When pressed about appointing 73-year-old former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as prime minister, some youths questioned whether meaningful change could come from it. Gurung responded that dissolving parliament, their key demand, had been fulfilled, but stressed that their movement was still ongoing.
Following heated exchanges, clashes broke out between Gen-Z supporters and journalists at the Bhrikutimandap area, with Gurung’s aides forced to escort him out for safety. Journalists said they felt threatened during the event, while youths accused Gurung of downplaying their sacrifices.
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