GenZ protests: Nepal probe team summons ex-PM
KATHMANDU, Dec 23: Nepal’s high-level inquiry commission investigating the Gen-Z protests in September has begun summoning senior political leaders involved at the time. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who resigned after 77 people were killed during police shootings, has been called to record his statement on Friday. Former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli may also be summoned, though no date has been set. Oli has criticised the commission, alleging bias and refusing to appear, claiming conclusions were pre-announced. The commission’s mandate, expanded after a December 10 agreement with Gen-Z groups, includes investigating human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, and excessive use of force, with recommendations for criminal accountability where appropriate. It may also recommend releasing those not involved in serious crimes. The panel has already taken statements from most individuals involved, including Nepal Army officials, police officers, and security officials. The investigation continues amid political tension, with Oli accusing the government of targeting him while protesters involved in vandalism face fewer consequences. (IANS)
Five policemen killed in attack in Pak’s KP
PESHAWAR, Dec 23: In Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, unidentified assailants opened fire on a police van in Karak district on Tuesday, killing five policemen during a routine patrol, officials said. District Police Officer Saud Khan confirmed the deaths, while a heavy police contingent cordoned off the area, collected evidence, and launched a search operation to apprehend the attackers. Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the attack, calling it “highly unfortunate” and “deplorable,” and emphasized that maintaining law and order remains the government’s top priority. He affirmed that such attacks would not weaken the resolve of state and security institutions. Authorities have pointed to the banned terror group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as responsible for similar attacks in provinces bordering Afghanistan, particularly after the expiration of the group’s ceasefire agreement in November 2022. The investigation into the Karak attack is ongoing. (PTI)
Cambodia reports multiple Thai military strikes
Phnom Penh, Dec 23: Thai forces continued artillery and tank-mounted attacks on Cambodian territory, killing 21 civilians, including an infant, and injuring 83, as the border conflict entered its 17th day, Cambodia’s Defence Ministry said. About 545,000 people have fled for safety. Both countries blame each other for initiating hostilities, which reignited on December 7. ASEAN Foreign Ministers, meeting in Kuala Lumpur, urged Cambodia and Thailand to exercise restraint, halt attacks, restore dialogue, and ensure civilians can safely return home. The meeting stressed ASEAN unity, regional peace, and cooperation on humanitarian and military de-escalation measures under international law. (IANS)
