Turmoil in Nepal: Prime Minister Resigns as Protesters Torch Government Buildings
In a wave of violent unrest, protesters in Nepal have set fire to the homes of top political leaders, government buildings, and the country's parliament. The escalating crisis has led to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. The demonstrations, initiated in response to a ban on social media platforms and perceived government corruption, have resulted in at least 22 deaths and left Nepal in a state of turmoil.
Background and Context
Protests began last week following the government's decision to block 26 social media platforms, which quickly spiraled into a broader condemnation of Nepal's political establishment. The situation intensified with student-led protests spreading across major cities, resulting in a violent crackdown by security forces.
Key Developments
On Tuesday, the protesters defied a curfew and continued their demonstrations. They targeted the residences of the president, prime minister, and other top political leaders, setting them ablaze. The protesters also vandalized and set fire to the Nepali Congress office, the headquarters of the Communist Party, and the Supreme Court.
Prime Minister Oli resigned amid the turmoil, stating, In view of the adverse situation in the country, I have resigned effective today to facilitate the solution to the problem and to help resolve it politically in accordance with the constitution,
according to Reuters. His resignation follows the deaths of 19 people in Kathmandu when police opened fire on protesters.
In a shocking incident, the wife of an ex-official, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, was reportedly burned alive in her own house, and Minister Bishnu Paudel was stripped, beaten and thrown into the Bagmati River.
Implications and Reactions
The international airport in Kathmandu has been closed as a result of the unrest. The Singha Durbar Palace, which houses several ministries and administrative offices, has been set ablaze, causing significant damage to Nepal's main administrative complex.
Protests have even spread to the Nepal-India border, with reports of police posts being set on fire. The situation has escalated to the point where troops have been deployed in an attempt to control the chaos.
Current Status
Despite the resignation of the Prime Minister and several officials, protests continue to rage across the country. Reports suggest that the government's attempts to suppress the protesters have only fueled their determination. The country now faces one of its worst crises in years, with the political situation continuously deteriorating.
The 'Generation Z Revolution', as it is being called by some, has demonstrated a clear rejection of the current administration. However, what this means for the future of Nepal's democracy remains uncertain.