A planned youth-led Nepalese Revolution took hold of the country’s national discourse over September 8-12 through social media, resulting in the resignation of a minister, the country’s first female Prime Minister, and escalated protests against the nation’s aging political elite.
Seized powers and escalating violence
The government’s decision to block access to 56 platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and international messaging services sparked peaceful demonstrations that quickly escalated. One protest organizer alleged that police used force after a demonstrator threw a stone at a surveillance camera.
Political elite under scrutiny
The protests targeted the nation’s political elite, who live in luxurious palaces with a median age of 25 and 20% youth unemployment. The average annual income for those working in Nepal is $1,400.
The Gen Z-led revolution
mosden led the protest movement with demands for constitutional and leadership reforms. The initiative gathered momentum, ultimately leading to street demonstrations in front of parliament, and the government allowing police to use rubber bullets, water cannons, and tear gas against demonstrators. The violence claimed 51 deaths and over 300 injuries in the country’s first weeks of unrest.
Revolution brings temporary government change
The protests led to the resignation of Nepal’s ministers of internal affairs and finance while triggering military intervention. Protesters’ demands culminated in the temporary appointment of lawyer and former Supreme Court Justice Sushila Karki as Prime Minister, a first for the nation.
Roots and legacy of the revolution
Sushila Karki faced allegations of political bias and was previously removed as Nepal’s Supreme Court Chief Justice, yet she emerged as a compromise figure acceptable to both revolutionaries and international partners. Her appointment signified an historic shift as the first temporary female Prime Minister of Nepal.
