Nepal is in turmoil after days of violent protests forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign. The unrest, led by young demonstrators, has been described as the country’s worst political crisis in years.
Sushila Karki Tipped for Interim Role
Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is expected to take over as interim prime minister. Sources close to the talks say President Ramchandra Paudel and army chief Ashok Raj Sigdel have backed her appointment.
Karki is a respected figure in Nepal. She became the country’s first female chief justice and is known for her firm stance against corruption. Many young protesters see her as a leader who can restore trust.
Gen Z Protests Spark Change
The protests were driven by frustration over corruption, inequality, and a lack of jobs. They began after a short-lived social media ban, which quickly fueled anger across the country.
Most of the demonstrators are teenagers and young adults, giving rise to the name Gen Z protests. Viral posts on TikTok and Instagram showed politicians’ children flaunting wealth, further inflaming resentment.
Violence and Damage
The protests turned violent as crowds stormed parliament and set fire to government buildings. Luxury hotels, including the Hilton and Hyatt Regency in Kathmandu, were also damaged. Fortunately, no guests or staff were injured, but both hotels remain closed.
So far, 34 people have died and more than 1,300 have been injured, according to Nepal’s health ministry. Protest leaders blamed infiltrators for the arson attacks, saying their movement remains peaceful.
Signs of Calm
By Friday, shops in Kathmandu had reopened and traffic returned to the streets. Police now carry batons instead of guns, and the army has reduced its presence.
If confirmed, Sushila Karki’s leadership may mark a turning point for Nepal. For the young generation, her appointment would symbolize a break from the past and a step toward a more accountable government.
