Gen Z Protest Leads to Political Shift in Nepal
Summary
A Gen Z-led protest in Nepal sparked deadly clashes, forced Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign, and triggered the lifting of a social media ban. The unrest eventually led to an interim government under Sushila Karki and a historic election that brought Balen Shah to power.
Key Points
- The Gen Z youth movement began with a spontaneous protest at Maitighar Mandala and spread to major cities across Nepal, demanding an end to corruption and the social media ban.
- Police used water cannons, tear gas, and gunfire during the crackdown, leaving 19 dead on the first day and more than 422 seriously injured.
- Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned, the government lifted the ban on 26 social media platforms, and nationwide protests continued the next day with arson and attacks on political offices.
- Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned, an interim government led by Sushila Karki was formed, and later elections brought Balen Shah into national leadership.
