The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has called on President Ramchandra Paudel to lead efforts to resolve the country’s political crisis from within the constitutional framework, warning against solutions imposed from military or non-civil authorities.

In a statement released on Thursday, the FNJ expressed serious concern over the aftermath of the Gen Z protests and the damage inflicted on public and media infrastructure.

“All efforts to solve political problems must come from the President’s office, not military headquarters,” FNJ, the umbrella body of Nepali journalists, said.

It however has commended the role played by the security forces in maintaining law and order at the time of crisis.

It said the country is currently in a transitional phase, following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli while the confusion over the formation of a new government has added uncertainty.

During the youth-led protests that started on Monday demanding anti-corruption measures and good governance, 35 people have died across the country, and many protesters as well as security personnel have been injured. Four journalists have also been wounded, while multiple media houses were attacked or set ablaze, the FNJ said.

The FNJ emphasised that the President should facilitate dialogue and mediate between all parties to restore peace, while security agencies provide protection. The federation, along with six professional networks, is prepared to support such facilitation, it said.

FNJ chair Nirmala Sharma stressed that while the protests strengthen democratic processes, there is no alternative to addressing grievances within the framework of the constitution.

“The state must compensate media and journalists for the damages, and both authorities and protesters should refrain from targeting the press,” the statement said.

The organisation has appealed to all stakeholders to act responsibly, exercise restraint, and respond sensitively to the structural reform demands raised by the Gen Z movement, while safeguarding the democratic republic system.