Nepali Gen Z activist Miraj Dhungana has publicly denied any role in inciting chaos or orchestrating the widespread violence and arson that recently engulfed Nepal, stating, “We’re not the ones burning the country down.” Dhungana and other youth leaders argue that the original Gen Z movement for accountability and reform was hijacked by outsiders and political opportunists, distancing themselves from the deadly riots and destruction of government property.
Nepal plunged into crisis after youth-led demonstrations were triggered by frustration over entrenched corruption and a controversial social media ban. The violence led to dozens of deaths, parliament buildings being set on fire, and the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Gen Z leaders actively disavowed the most extreme acts, stating their intention was never to “burn the country down.”
In a candid interview on Himalaya TV, 24-year-old Gen Z activist Miraj Dhungana addressed the swirling controversies surrounding his role in the September 8 youth movement that shook Nepal’s political landscape. The Makawanpur-born, Bhaktapur-based entrepreneur and master’s degree holder in management clarified his position, rejected accusations of being a political puppet, and reaffirmed his commitment to a corruption-free Nepal.
Miraj clarified that the September 8 protests were never about one leader but about collective frustration. “I was never the head of the movement. This was a headless movement,” he said. “I only called out because everyone needed a common ground.”
Despite accusations that he was being “used” or serving as someone’s “puppet,” Miraj insisted he acted independently and had no hidden political backing.
The protests turned violent, with at least 100 deaths reported. Miraj said, “My generation lost brothers and sisters in those shootings. We only wanted to raise our voices, but instead, bullets were fired at chests and heads. This is heartbreaking.”
Following the uprising, Miraj claimed he received numerous threats from unknown sources. His family, worried for his safety, urged him to go into hiding. “My parents feared for my life. I received direct threats—some even used AI to mimic my voice. That fear pushed me away from public programs.”
This absence, however, created suspicion that he had abandoned the movement or allowed others to hijack it.
The burning of Nepal’s historic government complex, Singha Durbar, became one of the darkest symbols of the chaos. Miraj distanced himself, saying, “How can ordinary young people, who don’t even know how to handle fuel properly, set such fires? That was the work of skilled hands, not students. Don’t place baseless accusations on us.”
He acknowledged that infiltrators may have mixed with protesters and escalated the violence, diluting the movement’s original goals.
Despite the controversies, Miraj continues to advocate for structural political reform, particularly the direct election of the executive leader (Prime Minister/President). “Nepal has seen ten governments in ten years. Instability destroys accountability,” he stated. “Even if an incompetent person rules, if they complete five years, they will be forced to deliver something. Directly elected leadership brings stability and responsibility.”
He expressed dissatisfaction with the current government formation process, calling it rushed and disconnected from the protesters’ demands.
When pressed about his political ambitions, Miraj remained cautious. “I never set out to enter politics. But if no one else stands up, I will,” he said. “My heart lies in business and social service, but the country’s need may demand more.”
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Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
