Nepal's Gen Z Protests Topple Government, Lead to First Female Prime Minister

Strategic Insights -

Nepal has been grappling with its most significant upheaval in years, with anti-corruption protests toppling the government in less than 48 hours last week. Demonstrators torched buildings, looted banks and shops, and attacked politicians in their homes. The country now has a new leader, Sushila Karki, who is not only Nepal's first female chief justice but also its first female prime minister. NPR's Omkar Khandekar reports from Kathmandu, where Gen Z protesters turned to a different generation to lead their revolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • The protests, led by Gen Z youth, were sparked by widespread anger over state corruption and Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli's sweeping ban on social media.
  • The protests resulted in dozens of deaths, over a thousand injuries, and the torching of government buildings.
  • Sushila Karki, a former chief justice known for challenging political elites, was chosen as Nepal's interim chief in an online poll by Gen Z groups.
  • Karki took an oath as Nepal's first female prime minister on Friday night, receiving widespread support from the public.
  • The protests were fueled by videos of politicians' children living in luxury on TikTok, highlighting the disconnect between the elite and the struggling youth.
  • The violence calmed down after Prime Minister Oli resigned on Tuesday evening, and the army stepped in to restore order.
  • Protesters took to social media to choose an interim chief, with Karki emerging as the top contender.
  • The protests have left a trail of destruction, with many lost lives and damaged property.
  • The situation remains uncertain, with many fearing that the protests may not lead to meaningful change.

Statistics:

  • Less than 48 hours were required for the protests to topple the government.
  • Dozens of people died from gunshot wounds during the protests.
  • Over a thousand people were injured during the violence.
  • Tens of thousands of prisoners broke out of jails across the country.
  • 16 different governments have ruled Nepal since the parliament abolished monarchy in 2007.
  • 50% of university graduates in Nepal are forced to leave the country to work as porters or construction laborers.
  • 2/3 of the protesters who took part in the online polls were in favor of Sushila Karki as the interim chief.

Sources:

  • NPR News, Kathmandu.
  • Omkar Khandekar, NPR News, Kathmandu.