KATHMANDU: Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Dr. Biswo Nath Nath Poudel has said that investor confidence has significantly weakened following the Gen Z movement of September 8 and 9.

Speaking at the “Nation Above All” conclave organized by Nagarik Aawaz on Wednesday, Governor Poudel noted that investment momentum had already been sluggish for the past couple of years, but the violent protests further eroded business confidence.

“Even though there was money in the system, investment was not expanding. We were already struggling to attract large-scale investments, and the Gen Z movement has worsened the situation,” he said.

Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) President Chandra Prasad Dhakal said the Gen Z movement had been infiltrated by external elements, leading to attacks on both private and government institutions.

“The movement initially began with legitimate objectives and frustrations, but infiltration turned it violent,” Dhakal remarked.

CPN (UML) Deputy General Secretary Pradeep Gyawali stressed that political parties should focus on systemic reforms rather than personality-centered politics.

“The dissatisfaction expressed through the Gen Z movement must be taken seriously by political forces. The need now is to reform the system, not individuals,” he said.

Nepali Congress leader Pradeep Paudel admitted that the Gen Z movement was also directed against his party.

“Since Nepali Congress was in government at the time, we must take responsibility. Our party has historically led revolutions, but this time, the people rose against us. The leadership must reflect on this to safeguard the party’s relevance,” he noted.

Rastriya Prajatantra Party General Secretary Kunti Kumari Shahi described the current political climate as “complex and full of mistrust.”

Rastriya Swatantra Party Central Committee Member Ganesh Karki said the Gen Z protests stemmed from long-standing frustrations among the youth.

Janata Samajwadi Party Spokesperson Manish Kumar Suman accused non-participants of the movement of trying to claim credit for it.

Attorney General Sabita Bhandari said the post-rebellion period presents both challenges and opportunities for the government.

“The government was formed with the promise of good governance. Prosecution and punishment will follow due process, but any judgment must be based on credible evidence,” she stated.