KATHMANDU, Sep 11: Nepal is facing a deepening political crisis as efforts to form an interim government remain stalled following the ouster of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
Despite growing public pressure and violent protests led by the youth-driven Gen Z movement, political parties and the army have yet to agree on who should lead a transitional administration. President Ramchandra Paudel, currently under military protection after protesters torched his office and private residence, has appealed for peace and pledged to find a solution within the constitutional framework.
Talks between Gen Z representatives and the military hit a roadblock over the choice of interim leadership. Names under consideration include former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, Dharan Mayor Harka Sampang, and former energy official Kulman Ghising. However, no consensus has been reached.
The unrest, which began Monday, has so far claimed 34 lives and injured over 1,300 people. Over 15,000 inmates escaped from more than 25 prisons after protestors stormed facilities and freed prisoners, leading to violent clashes with security forces. Eight inmates have died in the ensuing chaos.
The Nepal Army has taken charge of maintaining order, imposing curfews in Kathmandu Valley and other districts. Curfews are being relaxed during specific hours, allowing people to access essential goods. Shops and markets briefly reopened, though roads remain largely empty, still bearing signs of the violence.
In a public statement, Gen Z leaders emphasized that they are a civilian movement seeking constitutional reform, not revolution. They called for the dissolution of Parliament and amendments to ensure the constitution reflects the will of the people. They warned traditional political parties against exploiting their cause for political gain.
The protests have severely disrupted daily life. Banks, which were closed amid the violence, have resumed limited operations. The Supreme Court, damaged during the unrest, is set to reopen Sunday. Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut warned of the possible loss of important judicial documents.
To assist foreigners affected by the turmoil, the Department of Immigration announced that visa overstays beyond September 8 will be regularized without penalty. Provisions have also been made for those who lost passports during the riots.
The army reported recovering 97 illegal weapons and defusing eight socket bombs near Kathmandu. As talks continue, Nepal stands at a critical juncture, with the military, civil society, and political actors under pressure to restore order, uphold democracy, and address the rising demands of a disillusioned youth population. (PTI)
