The turmoil in Kathmandu, the road ahead for Nepal, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• Gen Z protests erupted in Kathmandu on September 8, 2025, leading to excessive police reaction and public anger.
• Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned on September 9, 2025, creating a political vacuum.
• Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as interim Prime Minister on September 12, 2025, with a mandate to conduct fresh elections within six months.
• Parliament was dissolved, and elections are scheduled for March 5, 2026.

Detailed Insights:

• The Gen Z protests reflect a broader frustration with political leaders misusing coalition politics for personal gain.
• Nepal's political transition began 35 years ago, with frequent government changes hindering job growth and economic development.
• President Ramchandra Paudel has reiterated his commitment to the constitution, seeking to justify the appointment of an Interim Prime Minister.
• Interim Government's priorities include ensuring elections, fixing accountability for police actions, and prosecuting corruption.
• There is growing sentiment to amend the 2015 constitution, potentially sparking protests among marginalized communities.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi's phone call to Ms. Karki conveyed condolences and assured full support to Nepal.
• Peaceful, free, and fair elections on March 5 would be the best way forward for Nepal.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Jan Aandolan: People's movements in Nepal that led to significant political changes.
• Federalism: A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.
• Proportional Representation: An electoral system in which parties gain seats in proportion to the number of votes cast for them.