UPDATE: Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, is engulfed in chaos as deadly protests have left at least 51 dead and over 1,300 injured. Flames still rage at the Hilton Hotel, while the city grapples with a government collapse and a nationwide curfew enforced by soldiers.
Just hours ago, authorities confirmed that former chief justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as the interim prime minister, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to lead the country. Her primary task: organize fresh elections for the lower house of parliament by March 2024.
The unrest erupted following clashes between security forces and young protesters, known as “Gen Z,” who initially rallied against a government ban on social media. The protests escalated into violence, resulting in widespread arson and destruction across Kathmandu, leaving government buildings in ruins and citizens in fear.
Amid the turmoil, the whereabouts of President Ram Chandra Poudel remain uncertain, prompting protests demanding his public appearance. “Make our president public,” demonstrators chanted, rejecting any semblance of military rule. The army, typically absent from direct governance, is now central to the current situation, with General Ashok Raj Sigdel meeting with protest leaders to discuss the future.
In a grim scene, mourners gathered outside the Maharajgunj Medical Campus to honor those lost, lighting candles for victims of the violence. “I never imagined this,” said Lance Corporal Ramesh Tamang, who has been fighting fires across the city, revealing the dire circumstances faced by emergency responders amid ongoing skirmishes.
Protesters have expressed frustration over the violence that has marred their movement, distancing themselves from the looting and destruction. “We wanted a revolution, but they burned down our own country,” lamented Swarnab Chowdhury, an 18-year-old student attempting to clean the streets.
As the sun set on October 12, 2023, an additional 8,000 soldiers arrived in Kathmandu, raising tensions further. Residents cautiously navigated the streets during a brief curfew suspension, discussing the aftermath of their nation’s political upheaval.
The situation remains fluid as Karki takes the reins, with many watching closely to see if she can stabilize a nation reeling from turmoil. As authorities scramble to restore order, the world watches Nepal’s next moves closely.
Stay tuned for live updates as this developing story unfolds, revealing the profound impacts on the people of Nepal and the future of their governance.
