Kathmandu — CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has said the demands raised by Nepal’s Gen Z protesters can be fulfilled through the existing constitution and parliamentary process.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Prachanda stressed that the youth agenda does not oppose democracy or republicanism but should be pursued through reforms within the system.
“Democracy can only be strengthened by moving toward a more advanced democracy. The republic can only be defended through a stronger republic. The issues Gen Z has raised are achievable within the current constitutional and parliamentary structure,” the statement read.
Defending Constitutional Gains
Prachanda underlined that the constitution guarantees rights for Dalits, women, indigenous peoples, Tharus, Muslims, Madhesis, and citizens of Karnali and Sudurpaschim.
He noted that decentralization of authority from Singha Durbar to local governments was a historic milestone. “We must honor past sacrifices and build on these foundations while writing new chapters in Nepal’s political journey,” he said.
Warning Against Violence and Infiltration
While acknowledging the legitimacy of Gen Z’s concerns, Prachanda warned that regressive forces had infiltrated the protests, leading to arson and vandalism. He condemned attacks on Parliament, the Supreme Court, Singha Durbar, and other institutions, saying they did not reflect the ideals of the Gen Z movement.
“These were not the actions of genuine Gen Z activists. Such incidents contradict the spirit of the youth and risk reversing hard-earned achievements,” he said, calling for a high-level judicial probe into both state repression and violent incidents.
Criticism of Government Actions
Prachanda blamed the Oli-led government for creating the crisis, accusing it of ignoring youth voices and resorting to violent crackdowns. “The massacre of unarmed youths has caused immense human suffering and triggered an explosion of public anger,” he said.
Shared Agendas with Youth
He added that the Maoist Centre has long advocated for issues now echoed by Gen Z, such as a directly elected executive, limiting lawmakers from holding ministerial posts, and creating a powerful commission to investigate the assets of top officials.
“The fact that today’s youth are taking ownership of these agendas is a matter of pride for us,” he said, recalling that the party had urged the government not to use force against peaceful protests.
He also questioned the suspicious timing of arson attacks on historic institutions and party offices, saying such acts require serious reflection.
