Kathmandu, Sept 12:
Nepal is once again at a historic crossroads. As the country reels from political upheaval, mass protests, and a sudden leadership vacuum, the name of Sushila Karki, the former Chief Justice, has emerged as the consensus choice to lead an interim government. At the same time, a rare and emotional message from former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah has added fuel to the nation’s already charged atmosphere, especially among the country’s restless Gen-Z youth.
Violence, Resignations, and a Nation in Turmoil
The wave of unrest began after the government’s controversial decision to ban 26 social media platforms—including Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter)—on September 8. The move, which was justified as an attempt to “control misinformation,” sparked immediate backlash, particularly among young Nepalis who have grown up with social media as their main platform of expression.
This backlash quickly transformed into the “Gen-Z Revolution,” a youth-driven movement demanding accountability, transparency, and an end to corruption. The protests grew rapidly, overwhelming security forces and pushing the government into crisis. Violent clashes led to tragic loss of life, further inflaming public anger.
As pressure mounted, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation and reportedly fled the country, leaving behind a political void. The public mood is still tense, with both grief and determination shaping the streets of Kathmandu and beyond.
Former King’s Rare Intervention
In this volatile climate, former King Gyanendra Shah—who has mostly maintained silence since the monarchy was abolished in 2008—issued a rare statement through the official Instagram account of the Royal Family of Nepal.
He expressed deep sorrow over the recent violence, offering condolences to the families of those who died. Shah called the events “sad and painful,” urging that strict action be taken against those responsible and stressing that “no convict should be spared.”
In his message, Shah also paid tribute to Jean ji, a young activist who lost his life during the protests, praising his courage in standing against injustice and corruption. “The courage with which Jean ji raised his voice is commendable,” Shah wrote, adding that his efforts must remain respected in Nepal’s history.
But it was Shah’s direct appeal to Nepal’s youth that has drawn the most attention. In words now widely shared across online and offline forums, he declared:
“O Veer, do not talk about retreat. If you want to get mother Janani, then Nepal will have to be found.”
The poetic yet provocative line is being read as a call to rediscover and rebuild the nation, sparking debate about whether the monarchy is subtly trying to re-enter Nepal’s political discourse.
Sushila Karki: A New Chapter?
Meanwhile, the political establishment has moved swiftly to prevent a complete collapse of governance. After rounds of consultation led by President Ramchandra Paudel, major parties have agreed to back Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister.
Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, is widely respected for her integrity and her past rulings against corruption. Her elevation is being seen as a potential stabilizing factor in a deeply divided country.
President Paudel consulted with Maoist Center Chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, as well as Nepali Congress leaders Purna Bahadur Khadka, Gagan Thapa, and Bishwaprakash Sharma, before settling on Karki’s name. Sources say the announcement will be formalized soon.
What Lies Ahead
The road forward for Nepal is anything but certain. On one hand, the youth-driven movement shows no signs of slowing down, with protesters demanding not just new leadership but systemic change. On the other, Karki’s appointment offers hope for a government that can restore trust and oversee reforms.
Yet, the return of Gyanendra Shah’s voice—symbolic and emotional—adds a new layer to the unfolding drama. For some, his message represents a reminder of national unity in turbulent times. For others, it raises concerns about political nostalgia and the dangers of revisiting Nepal’s monarchical past.
As Nepal stands at this critical juncture, the combination of youth-led defiance, political reshuffling, and royal intervention signals that the coming weeks may shape the country’s trajectory for years to come.
Also read – Tensions Rise Over Social Media Ban in Nepal; Indian Soldiers Send Food Aid to Nepal Army on Border
