The implosion of institutions does not automatically pave the way for a democratic transition or renewal — that’s why the coming weeks are going to be critical for Nepal. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned earlier this week after a ban on social media triggered widespread protests. For thousands of young Nepalis, online platforms are not only spaces for free expression but also critical lifelines for professional and financial growth. Nepal has long wrestled with domestic turmoil. A decade-long civil war abolished the monarchy and kindled hopes of a corruption-free Nepal. Yet since 2008, governments recycled the same set of leaders, and failed to deliver stability or prosperity. Rule of law was ignored, constitutional bodies were captured by political factions, and top leaders enjoyed immunity from corruption and other crimes. Even the investigative commissions envisioned in the 2006 Comprehensive Peace Accord were never taken seriously. The present crisis offers a chance for long overdue stabilisation and reform.
The constitution of Nepal has no clear provision for an interim prime minister who is not a member of parliament, which is, technically, still not dissolved. The youth leaders are reportedly looking for a way out of this crisis. They have made it clear that their protest is not against the constitution, but against the incumbent political class. The greatest challenge that Gen-Z faces is, arguably, the lack of a coherent agenda. A dozen representatives have met the army chief but divisions are already visible — some back former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister, others have reportedly put forward the name of Kulman Ghising, former head of the Nepal Electricity Authority. To carry the movement forward, all factions must agree on a clear path to elections and ensure they are conducted freely and fairly. The young protesters need to present a united front, even though their demands might be different, and secure meaningful representation in the political process.
The dangers of failure hardly need detailing. In neighbouring Bangladesh, a student-led movement was taken over by the entrenched political class. Hopefully, Nepal will manage to avoid that trajectory. Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal “Prachanda” has already issued a statement of solidarity, urging restraint and an independent judicial inquiry into the violence. Political parties that have lost the trust of the youth must not obstruct the transition; if they choose to participate, they should do so by consulting the younger leaders at every stage. In the interim, the priority should be not only elections but also the urgent revival of law and order, aided by the army. Arson, vandalism, and looting have spread fear among citizens, and escaped inmates are likely to exploit the prevailing chaos. Rogue elements must not be allowed to hijack the Gen-Z movement, even as all efforts are made to restore state authority.
