Kathmandu: Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah has expressed full support for the Gen Z rally scheduled for Monday, cautioning political parties and leaders against using the protest for their own interests.
In a social media statement, Shah welcomed the youth-led demonstration against the government’s ban on unregistered social media platforms. He clarified that the rally is strictly for participants under the age of 28, noting that he himself would not attend due to the age restriction.
“Tomorrow’s rally is clearly spontaneous for Gen Z. They are under 28, for whom I still look old,” Shah wrote. “No party, leader, worker, MP, or activist should turn this spontaneous rally into a tool for their own interests.”
The mayor said he was eager to hear the aspirations and demands of young people, calling their voices vital for the country’s future. “I cannot attend due to age restrictions, but it is important to understand their voices. I fully support them,” he stated. Addressing the youth directly, Shah asked: “Dear Gen Z, tell me what kind of country you want to see?”
The rally is set to take place in major cities, including Maitighar in Kathmandu, as young people prepare to protest against the government’s recent restrictions on social media and rising corruption.