Purushottam Yadav, 27, from Siraha District, has emerged as one of the prominent youth leaders in Nepal’s Gen Z movement, advocating for a governance system based on integrity and transparency.

Currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in Kathmandu, Yadav holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Sharda University in Greater Noida, India. Originally a student of engineering, he diverted his path to journalism, as he wanted to observe politics closely.

Ever since, he has been dedicated to studying the effects of corruption on society.

Yadav’s commitment to anti-corruption activism brought him to the forefront during the September 8 protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu. “It all began from conversations on Reddit and a TikTok campaign by the account ‘Wake Up Nepal,’ which I started. From there, it evolved into a nationwide youth-led demonstration,” he shares.

In seeking official approval, “I was one of the youths who approached the District Administration Office to request formal permission for the protest. We wanted to ensure everything was lawful and peaceful from the start,” he adds.

Initially intended to be non-confrontational, the protest escalated unexpectedly, resulting in clashes with authorities. Yadav condemns the escalation, noting that the protest’s original aim was to raise awareness about corruption and demand greater accountability, not to raise conflict. He emphasised that change begins at home, encouraging citizens to question malpractice wherever they encounter it and to actively contribute to fostering transparency within their communities.

Reflecting on the interim government led by Prime Minister Sushila Karki, Yadav recognises its difficulties, noting that significant structural and administrative challenges cannot be addressed overnight. He calls for patience and support, stating that while citizens have high expectations, the new government needs time to implement meaningful reforms and to protect the country’s resources and heritage.

With the Election Commission of Nepal announcing the upcoming House of Representatives elections for March 5, 2026, Yadav remains engaged in political discourse, considering the role he might play in shaping the future. Whether as a candidate or an active youth voice, his commitment to transparency and civic engagement is clear.

When asked if there are any leaders whose participation he is particularly looking forward to in the upcoming elections, Yadav shares, “There are no such leaders. I am focused on the broader movement and the values we stand for.”

From researching corruption to leading youth movements and engaging with governance structures, Yadav represents a generation determined to hold power to account. His journey shows the growing influence of Nepal’s Gen Z in public life, signalling that change, however gradual, begins with informed and courageous action.