Last Updated:
Protests erupted with hashtags like #NotMyNepal and #MeritOverLegacy as leaders’ children flaunted wealth online, fueling public anger amid economic crisis and unemployment
The situation escalated when Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s government, which had now resigned, attempted to suppress the social media movement, fueling even greater anger. (AP/File)
Nepal is facing a severe political turmoil as protests led by Gen Z over a temporary social media ban and widespread frustration with corruption and nepotism escalated into violent clashes, resulting in numerous injuries.
Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah Balen’s Facebook page is flooded with posts criticizing “nepo kids” for gaining advantages through connections, while ordinary citizens face hardships. This discontent, particularly strong among Gen Z, has been evident for the past year on social media with hashtags like #NepoKid.
Recommended Stories
The situation escalated when Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s government, which had now resigned, attempted to suppress the social media movement, fueling even greater anger. Oli himself faced accusations of favouring children of relatives and close associates, with claims that these individuals received preferential treatment in government contracts and jobs. As a result, viral stories and posts on social media highlighted the struggles of the common youth against such practices.
Over the last two years, many young Nepalis have mobilised against nepotism. Campaigns spread from small villages to large cities, gaining significant support on social media.
Protests erupted with hashtags like #NotMyNepal and #MeritOverLegacy becoming widespread. Many influential leaders’ children flaunted their wealth and luxury lifestyles online, exacerbating the public’s frustration amidst economic crises and high unemployment.
Let us explore six such incidents that have fueled public anger over the influence and privileges of Nepal’s “nepo kids.”
Political Leader Appoints Son To Senior Ministry Post
One notable incident involved the son of a prominent political figure being appointed to a high post in a government ministry without proper qualifications. According to some reports, in Nepal’s Gandaki Province, Saugat Thapa, the son of Bindu Kumar Thapa, the Minister for Social Development, was appointed to a high-ranking position in the provincial government.
This appointment sparked controversy due to his limited political experience and the perception that it was made based on political connections rather than merit. The appointment has been widely criticized on social media platforms, with many questioning the fairness and transparency of the selection process.
It was claimed that due procedures were bypassed due to the influence of his political family, leading to large-scale protests and the trending of #MeritNotNepotism on social media. Although the government reportedly conducted an inquiry, only minor reforms were ordered.
Glamour World Dominated By ‘Nepo Kids’
Another instance of nepotism as reported in News18 Hindi was seen in Nepal’s film industry. According to the report, an emerging actress, whose father is a well-known politician, reportedly secured a lead role in a major film without any acting experience. This sparked protests from talented but disadvantaged artists. Social media campaigns led some producers to introduce new audition policies, but family influence remained pervasive, the report mentioned.
Scams In Bank Loans and Government Contracts
According to News18 Hindi, in the banking sector, a senior officer’s son obtained a significant loan without proper guarantees, and reports indicated misuse of the funds. Investigations implicated several high-ranking officials, but no strict actions were taken due to mafia influence, the report said. The story remained in the headlines, intensifying demands for transparency in the banking system. Although the government introduced new rules, actual changes were minimal, leading to public unrest.
Perks For Families Of Coalition Partners
Oli’s government faced criticism for promoting the families of Nepali Congress leaders. Notable “nepo kids”, Shreya Karki (daughter of former minister Ram Chandra Karki), Vivek Sharma (son of ex-Finance Minister Janardan Sharma, Maoist leader), and Tara Thapa (daughter of former minister Arjun Narsingh KC), were reportedly given political or social opportunities. All were linked to Oli’s coalition government. In April 2024, reports indicated that Oli also promoted relatives of his close associates in party positions and business opportunities, triggering a party split.
Controversy Surrounding Miss Nepal Shrinkhala Khatiwada
In another high-profile case, former Miss Nepal Shrunkhala Khatiwada, whose father was the health minister, was accused of receiving $50,000 from the Miss World Foundation for her projects, highlighting nepotism.
Tragic Demise Of A Young Girl
A tragic incident further fueled the movement when Usha, an 11-year-old girl from a poor family, was allegedly run over by the son of a government official. Her death sparked nationwide outrage and strengthened the youth’s resolve to fight against inequality and nepotism.
Nepal
September 11, 2025, 13:39 IST
Loading comments…
Read More
