The Gen-Z protests in Nepal have taken a more violent turn. Although Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli and several ministers have resigned, demonstrations are still ongoing. Amid arson attacks and clashes in the capital Kathmandu and other cities, the Nepalese Army and the country’s main security agencies have called for urgent political dialogue, according to the Kathmandu Post.
On Tuesday, in a joint statement, the Nepal Army, heads of security agencies, the Chief Secretary, and the Home Secretary said, “There is no alternative to dialogue for a peaceful solution. Only through dialogue can order and stability be restored.”
Earlier, protesters set fire to the Federal Parliament, Singha Durbar, the Supreme Court, political party offices, and the homes of several top leaders.
Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, a day after 19 people were killed and more than 400 injured in police firing during a crackdown on demonstrations. The President has accepted his resignation.
Meanwhile, Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah urged Gen-Z protesters to show restraint. In a Facebook post, he wrote, “The Prime Minister has already resigned. Now lives and property must not be destroyed. Public and private property is our collective asset. Please remain peaceful. Damage to national assets means loss for all of us. From now on, it is your generation that will have to lead the nation.”
Despite Oli’s resignation, the protests continue. Demonstrators say they will not back down until major political reforms are introduced and accountability for corruption is ensured.
