The Gen Z Movement and the Call for a Directly Elected Executive
In recent years, the Gen Z movement in Nepal has emerged as a powerful voice advocating for political change. One of the key demands from this generation is the establishment of a political structure with a directly elected executive, such as a prime minister or president. Miraj Dhungana, a prominent Gen Z activist, has been vocal about this idea, calling for a system where leaders are chosen directly by the people.
However, the Gen Z movement is not characterized by clear leadership, making it difficult to define exactly what the proposed system would look like. It remains unclear whether the idea of a directly elected executive has widespread support or if it is merely a fleeting concept among a small group of activists.
Despite this ambiguity, the proposal has raised concerns among many observers. The idea of a directly elected executive is seen as potentially dangerous for Nepal’s progress, even if it were just a passing trend. The possibility of implementing such a system must be immediately challenged and rejected, as it could lead to further instability and corruption.
Addressing Historical Injustices
To combat corruption and bring about meaningful political reforms, the Gen Z movement must confront the deep-rooted issues of caste and social exclusion that have persisted in Nepal for centuries. For generations, upper-caste Bahuns and Chhetris have dominated political power, benefiting from their positions while systematically excluding lower castes and indigenous communities from economic opportunities.
This systemic exclusion has led to growing inequality and poverty among marginalized groups. Corruption and abuse of power have continued under various political systems because the underlying socio-economic structures allowed authority to shift from one group of upper-caste beneficiaries to another. As a result, lower castes and indigenous communities have been pushed further away from economic opportunities, deepening the cycle of poverty.
To end corruption, it is essential to address these historical wrongs. The only way to secure lasting change is by devolving power—transferring genuine political authority to communities and individuals so they can shape their own development.
The Role of Nepal’s Constitution
Nepal’s existing constitution aims to achieve exactly that, at least on paper. The structure of Nepal’s secular federal republic, combined with a system of direct and proportional representation, devolves power to communities while ensuring equal rights for all. The constitution secures the rights of every individual, transfers authority to communities, and provides a clear path for progress for everyone.
It is one of the most progressive constitutions in the world. However, the challenge lies in its implementation. Many of the same political leaders who were vilified during the Gen Z protests were those who helped draft the constitution. While the constitution itself is not responsible for the failures of political parties and leaders, its full implementation is crucial for real change.
A Choice for the Future
Gen Z activists and leaders now face a critical choice. They can either demand the full implementation of the constitution, transferring power, hope, and opportunity to communities and individuals. Alternatively, they can pursue an illusory idea of a perfect leader—a directly elected executive who will do only good things, never engage in corruption, and avoid the pitfalls of nepotism. But this approach risks repeating the same patterns of exclusion, oppression, and corruption that have plagued Nepali politics for decades.
The Corrosive Nature of Power
History has shown that absolute power corrupts absolutely. Political leaders who once inspired change have often become symbols of corruption and disrepute. Puspha Kamal Dahal “Prachanda,” KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Arzu Rana Deuba were once celebrated for their revolutionary ideals and contributions to democracy. However, over time, they became widely discredited as corrupt figures.
What caused this transformation? It seems that no matter how honest and high-integrity a leader may start out, power inevitably leads to corruption. This is why checks and balances are essential to keep political leaders accountable. A government divided between the executive, legislative, and judiciary provides some level of balance, but in Nepal, these institutions are not strong enough to prevent abuse of power.
The Need for Stronger Civil Society
Another critical check on power is the presence of a strong, independent civil society. Effective participation requires a free press, active civil society organizations, pressure groups, adequate funding, and reduced political patronage. Unfortunately, Nepal lacks these essential elements, making it even more vulnerable to the dangers of unchecked executive power.
If a directly elected executive were to take power, it could easily override the existing checks and balances, leading to further instability and corruption. Imagine if someone like KP Sharma Oli had been a directly elected prime minister—he might have won national elections with ease.
The Path Forward
Progress in Nepal is not about finding a single perfect leader who will solve all problems. Such a person does not exist, and even if they did, the temptation of unchecked power would be too great. Instead, the best hope for progress lies in distributing power among the people.
The answer to Nepal’s challenges lies in ordinary citizens—farmers, doctors, musicians, traders, artists, and others—who can make a difference in their communities. The constitutional framework offers this opportunity, allowing everyone to realize their potential.
Let us implement the constitution fully, even as we rebuild the buildings that house it. The future of Nepal depends on this commitment to equality, justice, and shared prosperity.
