Nepal will hold fresh elections to the House of Representatives within six months. On Saturday, President Ramchandra Paudel announced that the polls will take place on March 5. This decision aims to restore stability after weeks of violent unrest.
Gen Z Protests Leave 51 Dead
Recently, Gen Z-led protests turned violent across the country. As a result, 51 people died, and over 1,300 others were injured. Moreover, thousands of prisoners escaped during the chaos.
President Paudel urged the nation to unite. “The people have got the opportunity to move forward on the path of a more advanced democracy by holding the elections to the House of Representatives within six months,” he said.
Furthermore, he appealed to political parties to work together. “I sincerely appeal to all parties to cooperate in the work of pleasing the people and holding the elections to be held on March 5 by making good use of the opportunity obtained with great tact,” he added.
Citizens Hold Candlelight Vigil
Earlier on Saturday, citizens gathered outside Bouddhanath Stupa in Kathmandu. During the vigil, they lit candles and stood in silence to honor those who lost their lives. Students, monks, activists, and local residents participated in this show of solidarity.
FIR Filed Against Former PM Oli
Meanwhile, Nepali Congress MP Abhishek Pratap Shah filed an FIR against former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. He submitted the complaint at New Baneshwor police station through chief district officer Dilkumar Tamang of Kapilvastu.
Interim PM Visits Injured Protestors
In addition, interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki visited a civil hospital to meet protestors who were injured during the demonstrations.
The Ministry of Health and Population later confirmed the official death toll. Of the 51 killed, 30 died from gunshot wounds, while 21 died from burns, injuries, and other causes.
Moreover, Nepal Police spokesperson Ramesh Thapa revealed that the dead included one Indian national and three police officers.
Country Gradually Returns to Normal
Following these events, authorities lifted the nationwide curfew a day after Karki took office. Consequently, public transportation resumed, and long-distance buses began operating again from Kathmandu.
Modi Congratulates Karki
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Karki on her new role. Speaking in Imphal, he said, “Nepal is a close friend of Bharat. I hope the Interim PM will ensure stability.”
Additionally, Modi praised Karki’s historic achievement. He noted that her appointment as Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister is “an important example of women’s empowerment.”