By Eniola Amadu
Leader of Nepal’s recent youth-led protests, Sudan Gurung, that forced the government from power within days, has announced plans to run in the country’s March general elections.
He said his movement would “fight till the end” to build what he called a government of the people.
In an interview with Start Here’s Sandra Gathmann, Gurung said his group is mobilising supporters across the country to form a “movement for change” rather than a traditional political party.
“They have dragged us into politics,” he said, describing former leaders as “selfish” and “corrupt.” “If it’s politics they want, that’s what they’ll get. We will be running for the next election because we are not going to back down now.”
The 36-year-old emerged as the face of a grassroots uprising led largely by Generation Z.
The demonstrations began after the government blocked social media platforms such as Facebook, X and YouTube, citing non-compliance with oversight rules.
What started as opposition to restrictions quickly expanded into a broader movement against corruption, state violence, and impunity.
Rights groups reported dozens of deaths and thousands of injuries during the unrest.
Gurung said the movement is preparing to govern, with volunteers already forming legal and communications committees and collecting policy demands nationwide through platforms like Discord and Instagram.
“We are working to ensure that every voice of the Nepalese people is heard,” he said.
He indicated he would not stand as an independent but would contest alongside other young candidates.
“If I just run as an independent candidate, we won’t have this force of youths. Together, we are stronger,” he said.
The movement’s agenda extends beyond anticorruption, with proposals to boost Nepal’s tourism sector and strengthen ties with India and China while avoiding “external interference.”
Gurung also urged interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki to accelerate investigations into corruption and alleged abuses during the protests.
Asked whether he aspired to the premiership, Gurung said: “I won’t say I am the right person right now … but if the people choose me, I am definitely going to run.”
He also claimed attempts had been made to intimidate him through surveillance and threats but said such actions would not succeed.
“I’m not scared … just killing me won’t do anything,” Gurung said. “I need to save my nation because it’s now or never.”
