The #NepoKids movement among Gen-Z youth in Nepal has gained significant momentum. Anger against the luxurious lifestyles and nepotism of leaders' children has shaken the political landscape, forcing Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign under pressure.
Nepal Protest: The anger of Gen-Z youth in Nepal is no longer confined to social media but has evolved into a large-scale movement. The #NepoKids campaign, which began on social media, spread so rapidly that it shook the very foundations of power. The youth allege that the sons and daughters of politicians live lives of luxury funded by the hard-earned money of the public and occupy high positions without any effort. They state that these 'Nepo Kids', oblivious to the public's hardships and struggles, spend their time indulging in expensive cars, luxurious homes, and foreign trips.
Prime Minister Oli Forced to Resign
The impact of this movement was so profound that Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli was compelled to resign. Gen-Z asserts that corruption and nepotism have taken deep root in the country. Children of politicians ascend to high positions based on their political connections, while qualified and hardworking youth struggle with unemployment and adversity. This campaign has connected millions of young people across social media platforms like Twitter (now X), Reddit, and Instagram.
Who are Nepal's 'Nepo Kids'?
Gen-Z youth have targeted individuals who come from families associated with politics and power, and who lead extravagant lives.
Saugot Thapa
Saugot Thapa, son of former Law Minister Binod Kumar Thapa, is the first name on this list. Saugot won the Chamber of Commerce election leveraging his father's political influence. The youth accuse him of lacking qualifications and experience, and claim he secured the position due to his connections. Saugot's luxurious lifestyle, foreign travels, and expensive cars have further fueled the youth's anger.
Shrinkhala Khatiwada
Shrinkhala Khatiwada, who won the Miss Nepal World title, is also in the Gen-Z's crosshairs. The youth have raised questions about Shrinkhala's luxurious life and expensive hobbies, as she is the daughter of former Health Minister Birodh Khatiwada. They contend that Shrinkhala won the title not through talent but due to her father's influence. Following the start of the movement, Shrinkhala lost over a hundred thousand followers on her social media.
Bina Magar
Bina Magar, daughter-in-law of former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', faces direct allegations of corruption. While serving as Water Minister, she was accused of undertaking foreign trips using government funds and of diverting funds from rural water projects for personal gain. The youth argue that Bina Magar also benefited from nepotism and prioritized her own interests over public welfare.
Shivana Shrestha
Shivana Shrestha, daughter-in-law of former Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, is also included in this list. Her luxurious lifestyle and assets worth crores have been subjects of discussion on social media. The youth claim that all these Nepo Kids are living lives of luxury, oblivious to the hardships faced by the common public.
Movement Goes Viral on Social Media
The #NepoKids hashtag has caused an earthquake in Nepal's politics. Viral photos and videos on Instagram and Twitter show the children of politicians in expensive universities, flaunting luxury watches, Gucci bags, and designer clothing. While the general public is troubled by inflation and unemployment, these youth are seen vacationing abroad and living lavish lifestyles. This stark contrast has now become the reason for the youth's anger.
