Young protesters from Generation Z confronted cadres of Nepal's CPN-UML party in a tense standoff in Dhangadhi on Wednesday. The confrontation occurred during a demonstration against Mahesh Basnet, a prominent figure from former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's political circle.
Protest Turns Confrontational in Kailali District
The incident unfolded when Mahesh Basnet traveled to Dhangadhi in Kailali district to participate in an event organized by the youth wing of the CPN-UML party. Local Gen Z activists, who had been mobilizing against what they describe as outdated political practices, gathered to voice their opposition to Basnet's presence in the region.
According to eyewitness accounts, the situation escalated rapidly when party cadres attempted to clear the path for Basnet's convoy. Young protesters stood their ground, leading to pushing and shoving between the two groups. The confrontation occurred on November 26, 2025, though local authorities managed to prevent the situation from turning violent.
Political Tensions Surface in Western Nepal
The demonstration highlights the growing political divide in Nepal between traditional political structures and a new generation of activists. The CPN-UML, led by former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, has faced increasing criticism from youth groups demanding political reform and greater accountability.
Mahesh Basnet, the center of the controversy, is known as a close associate of Oli and has been a controversial figure in Nepalese politics. His visit to Dhangadhi was part of the party's ongoing efforts to strengthen its youth outreach, though the reception from actual young activists proved less than welcoming.
Broader Implications for Nepal's Political Landscape
This incident represents the latest in a series of confrontations between established political parties and youth movements in Nepal. The Gen Z protesters have been increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with traditional political leadership, calling for newer faces and more progressive policies.
The timing is particularly significant given Nepal's ongoing political transitions and the CPN-UML's position as a major opposition force. The party's youth wing had organized the Dhangadhi event specifically to engage with younger demographics, but the protest suggests their message may not be resonating with the broader youth population.
Local authorities have increased security presence in the area following the confrontation, though no arrests or serious injuries have been reported. Both sides have accused the other of provoking the incident, with party officials claiming the protesters disrupted a lawful political gathering while activists argue they were exercising their democratic rights.
