Sudan Gurung: From DJ to Nepal's Home Affairs Minister

Sudan Gurung's Unique Journey to Politics

Sudan Gurung, the newly appointed Minister of Home Affairs in Nepal, is making waves due to his remarkable transition from a DJ to a political figure. He is the founder of Hami Nepal, a youth-driven NGO that significantly contributed to the anti-government protests led by Gen Z in 2025. Utilizing platforms like Discord and Instagram, they organized demonstrations that ultimately resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli during a tumultuous period that claimed many lives.

Hami Nepal also facilitated the selection of Nepal's next leader through a virtual poll on Discord, where thousands participated in discussions about the nation's future. This initiative culminated in the appointment of former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the new leader.

On his Instagram profile, Gurung identifies himself as an adventurer, traveler, DJ, and entrepreneur. Hami Nepal highlights his commitment to philanthropy, showcasing over ten years of experience in disaster relief, notably during the 2015 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic, where he mobilized numerous volunteers.

Gurung's career path is quite intriguing. Originally from Chumnubri village, he later relocated to Kathmandu, where he initially worked in a call center before gaining fame as DJ Sudan. He also organized events and owned a nightclub named OMG in Thamel, a bustling area in downtown Kathmandu.

The Rise of Gen Z Protests in Nepal

In September 2025, Nepal faced a significant political upheaval following a sweeping ban on social media, which ignited widespread unrest among the youth. The abrupt restriction, coupled with rampant corruption, fueled frustration among young Nepalis, many of whom were struggling with a high unemployment rate of 12.6 percent, as reported by the Nepal Living Standards Survey in 2024.

What began as a digital movement quickly escalated into a nationwide call for action, with students and young professionals demanding not only the restoration of online freedoms but also greater accountability from the government and an end to corruption. The protests also highlighted the issue of political nepotism, leading to the viral "Nepo Kids" campaign.