KATHMANDU: CPN (UML) Chair KP Sharma Oli has clarified that he never called the Gen-Z movement of September 8-9 “wrong.”
Speaking during an interaction with editors on Sunday, Oli said he was well aware of the demands raised by the Gen-Z protesters.
“Their demands were mainly about controlling corruption, ensuring good governance, and reopening banned social media platforms,” he said. “They did not demand the prime minister’s resignation. I clearly remember their three key demands, and I have been fighting for those same causes.”
Oli refuted claims that social media platforms were shut down abruptly, saying the process had been ongoing for over a year and a half.
“For one and a half years, we had been sending verbal and written notices asking these platforms to register in Nepal,” he said. “TikTok was reopened after it agreed to follow the rules. But those who refuse to register, pay taxes, or comply with national laws cannot be allowed to operate freely. Every nation has its own sovereignty.”
He also clarified that he did not oppose the youth protests. “I never said the Gen-Z movement itself was wrong,” he said. “But there were certain groups, like TOB, who are now being exposed. Those behind the violent incidents are gradually coming to light.”
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