Nepal’s army resumed talks on Thursday with young protesters to decide on a new interim leader, after weeks of violent demonstrations that left 30 people dead and forced the prime minister to resign.
The unrest, the worst the Himalayan nation has seen in years, began after authorities imposed a controversial social media ban. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, killing 19 people before the ban was rolled back. Protests continued, however, driven by anger at government corruption and lack of economic opportunities.
“Initial talks are on and would continue today,” army spokesperson Raja Ram Basnet told Reuters, adding that efforts were underway to “normalise the situation slowly.”
The army has kept prohibitory orders in force across Kathmandu and surrounding districts, while soldiers continue to patrol the capital’s quiet streets. Nepal’s health ministry said more than 1,000 people were injured in the protests.
Demonstrations have been largely youth-led, popularly known as the “Gen Z protests.” Protesters have demanded the appointment of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister. “When they requested me, I accepted,” Karki confirmed to CNN-News18.
The protests have seen government buildings, including the Supreme Court and ministers’ residences, set ablaze. Former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s private home was among the targets. In addition, hotels and businesses were torched, including several establishments in Pokhara and the Hilton in Kathmandu.
International flights from Kathmandu airport are operating normally despite the turmoil, authorities said.
The negotiations between the army and protest leaders mark a pivotal moment as Nepal seeks to restore stability. But with anger still raw and expectations high, the country faces an uncertain path forward.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
