Massive Protests Shake Nepal's Political Landscape

KATHMANDU: This week, a wave of protests in Nepal reached a boiling point, culminating in clashes that forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign. The demonstrations, predominantly fueled by young protesters in their teens and early 20s, have been dubbed the Gen Z protests as they express outrage against the stark wealth disparity in one of the world's poorest nations.

The turmoil escalated dramatically after at least 19 protesters were killed, with the death toll now climbing to 34 and over 1,300 injured, according to the health ministry. As the flames of discontent spread, protesters targeted both parliament and luxury establishments, signaling a dire discontent with the opulent lifestyles of the elite.

Luxury Hotels in Flames: A Symbol of Elite Excess

While lawmakers scrambled to regain control, arsonists turned their attention to high-end hotels, torching notable establishments like the Hilton and Hyatt Regency. The latter, situated near the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, suffered significant damage but, thankfully, no injuries to guests or staff were reported. Due to ongoing unrest, the hotel remains closed indefinitely, a blow to Nepal's crucial tourism sector.

The Hilton Hotel, another prime target, was set ablaze, sending thick black smoke into the Kathmandu air. Opened just last year by a prominent business heir, its closure adds to the economic strain felt across the country.

The Voice of a Discontented Generation

Despite the chaos, leaders of the Gen Z protest movement have disavowed the violent acts, blaming external infiltrators. However, analysts suggest that the deep-rooted frustration over rampant inequality and pervasive corruption among Nepal’s ruling class has finally ignited the youth's anger.

As social media platforms buzz with images of political elites basking in luxury, the contrast to the daily struggles faced by everyday Nepalis becomes stark. Thousands of young people are leaving Nepal daily in search of opportunities abroad, amplifying the dissatisfaction.

A Call for Change

Balaram KC, a retired Supreme Court justice, captured the sentiment of many: "You who are supposed to run the country in an honest way are only looking after yourselves." His words highlight the sense of betrayal felt by the public.

Lawmakers are feeling the heat too. Rajendra Bajgain, whose own luxury hotel was targeted, announced plans to resign from parliament in solidarity with the protesters. He acknowledged the long-standing dissatisfaction tied to widespread corruption, emphasizing a critical need for reform.

As the protest movement gains momentum, the message is clear: the youth of Nepal are determined to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from their leaders, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.