Violent protests rocked Nepal this week, forcing the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli after a short-lived social media ban ignited widespread unrest. The demonstrations, largely spearheaded by young Nepalese, quickly escalated from anger over restricted online access to a broader condemnation of government corruption and the stark inequalities within the nation. The initial trigger – the government’s attempt to regulate social media platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube – morphed into a full-blown expression of frustration over rampant unemployment and perceived favoritism towards the children of political elites, often referred to as 'nepo kids'.
The protests, dubbed the 'Gen Z protests', saw tens of thousands taking to the streets, blocking roads, and storming government buildings. The intensity of the demonstrations was shocking, resulting in government buildings, including the prime minister's office and the residences of several top political figures, being set ablaze. The police response on Monday, which involved opening fire on protestors, tragically resulted in 19 deaths and numerous injuries, further fueling the outrage.
Even after the social media ban was lifted, the protests continued unabated, driven by grief over the casualties and accusations of widespread corruption. Videos circulated online depicted scenes of violent clashes between protesters and authorities, including incidents of prominent political leaders being attacked. The army, while remaining largely in its barracks initially, issued a statement committing to maintaining law and order, hinting at potential intervention if the situation doesn't stabilize.
International bodies, including the United Nations, have expressed deep concern and urged all parties to exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue. Secretary-General António Guterres called for an investigation into the events and a commitment to respecting human rights. The resignation of Prime Minister Oli, while a significant response to the pressure, has not yet quelled the unrest. The nation now awaits the formation of a new government and the resolution of deeper-seated socio-economic issues that fueled these explosive demonstrations. The underlying issues of youth unemployment, estimated at around 20% according to the World Bank, and a widening wealth gap continue to cast a long shadow over Nepal's future.
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Originally published at: https://apnews.com/article/nepal-protest-social-media-ban-89cf500969536cf2a35c3fb884cfa620
