Nepal’s President Paudel Engages Protesters Amid Escalating Unrest

Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Paudel is set to meet with a delegation of young protesters on Wednesday, seeking a peaceful resolution to the escalating unrest sparked by the ongoing Gen Z movement. This development follows the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, which President Paudel accepted late Tuesday. The President’s call for dialogue aims to address the rising tensions without further violence or destruction.

In an official statement reported by The Himalayan Times, President Paudel expressed the need for calm and urged all parties involved to engage in constructive discussions. He emphasized that in a democracy, citizens’ demands should be addressed through dialogue and negotiation. The appeal comes on the second day of violent demonstrations, which have resulted in at least 19 fatalities and hundreds injured due to clashes with security forces outside the Federal Parliament.

The protests, which began on September 8, 2023, in Kathmandu and other major cities like Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj, were ignited by the government’s controversial decision to ban 26 major social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. The government cited tax revenue and cybersecurity concerns as justifications for the ban. However, many citizens perceive this action as an infringement on free speech and an attempt to stifle dissent.

As public frustration grew, protesters demanded an end to systemic corruption and favoritism within the government. The movement, primarily led by young people and students, calls for greater accountability and transparency in decision-making processes. The ban on social media is seen as a direct attack on citizens’ rights, further fueling the unrest.

The situation escalated dramatically as security forces confronted demonstrators. Reports indicate that at least 500 individuals sustained injuries during the clashes, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in several cities, including Kathmandu, to restore order. The protests have resonated deeply with the population, particularly as the “Nepo Babies” trend on social media highlighted the extravagant lifestyles of politicians’ children, intensifying public anger over economic inequalities.

Additionally, the ongoing jobs crisis in Nepal, with approximately 5,000 young people leaving the country daily for work opportunities abroad, has contributed to the unrest. The combination of economic hardship and perceived governmental negligence has galvanized a generation eager for change.

As President Paudel prepares to engage with the protesters, the nation watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes dialogue over further violence. The coming days will be crucial as both the government and protesters seek a pathway forward in the face of deep-seated grievances.