Videos are pouring onto social media, capturing the pandemonium and horror as flames engulf Nepal’s parliament building. This serious but impactful imagery serves to underscore the severity of the protests happening currently against corruption in the country. Those demonstrations have mobilized over a hundred thousand citizens, united in their call for accountability and transparency from their government.
The tumult grew exponentially on July 13, when Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli stepped down. Scandal upon scandal This storm was further aggravated by the resignations of other top ministers. So they made the noble decision to resign on account of the citizens’ growing discontent. That discontent was fueled by increasing government corruption accusations. The resignation of these leaders is a clear sign of change in Nepal’s political landscape in the face of increasing demands for reform.
Protests broke out throughout Nepal in response to the government’s corruption skimming deal protest. All this outcry came to a head in loud and persistent demands for systemic change. Together we have seen demonstrators fill the streets, demanding justice and accountability from their elected officials. As the sun set, violence escalated dramatically with widespread confrontations between police and protesters on the street. This tragic unrest has already resulted in at least 19 confirmed deaths.
From testimonies of those on the frontlines Eyewitness accounts describe a heavy, hostile atmosphere over the protests. Beyond the corruption, demonstrators expressed their rage over the government’s neglect of serious social concerns. Yet Prime Minister Oli’s resignation last week has escalated the pressure cooker state. Citizens are holding their breath now that a new leadership takes over in hopes of finally instituting some serious reforms.
The political future of Nepal is once again unclear in the aftermath of these events. Some analysts have raised concerns that the surprise resignations may result in a power vacuum. At best, it creates opportunities for new political coalitions to coalesce around alleviating the burdens of inequities and climate change. The public expects more robust inquiries into corruption claims. This concern will continue to be a burning topic as new administration leaders take their posts.
The world community is watching closely as this transition unfolds in Nepal, and calls for restraint and a commitment to continued dialogue have been echoed strongly. Like many other organizations, we are horrified by the ongoing loss of life and injuries during protests. They call on protesters and law enforcement alike to exercise restraint.
