The 'Gen-Z Revolution' has been ongoing in Nepal for more than a day since Monday, drastically altering the landscape in Kathmandu in a short span. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has already resigned, and over 25 MPs from the opposition party Rashtriya Swatantra Party have submitted their resignations. The Parliament House and the Supreme Court are now in the hands of protesters, with the general populace holding sway over Kathmandu.
Demands for Interim Government
The social media ban was revoked yesterday, and PM Oli stepped down on Tuesday. However, protesters remain steadfast. Several ministers are under scrutiny, with attacks on former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba by protestors, who were assaulted. The Finance Minister endured a humiliating chase on the streets, with the footage going viral on social media.
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Initially a movement against social media bans, corruption, and nepotism, this Gen-Z protest has metamorphosed into a full-blown revolution. PM Oli's resignation underscores this transformation. The call now is for Kathmandu's Mayor Balen Shah to assume the role of interim Prime Minister, with demands to dissolve Parliament and initiate fresh elections. Protestors are enraged over police shootings resulting in over 20 deaths this past day.
Balen Shah Appeals to the Youth
Balen Shah has addressed the protestors on social media, urging peace. He stated, 'Exercise patience and maintain peace as your demands have been met. The resignations have responded to your sacrifices. Now, it's time to lead the nation. Your generation must step up, be prepared for this responsibility. Additionally, be ready for dialogue with the army chief. However, remember, dissolving the Parliament is a prerequisite for any discussions.'
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Balen Shah, also known as Balendra Shah, the Mayor of Kathmandu, is seen as the face of this Gen-Z movement. He began his career as a civil engineer and later transitioned into politics. His unique lifestyle and fashion sense have made him a youth icon in Nepal. In 2023, Time Magazine recognized him as one of the 100 most influential figures, owing to his remarkable impact, having been elected as an independent mayor with no political lineage. This sets him apart in the hearts of young Nepalese.
Balen Shah has morally supported the demonstrations in Kathmandu since Monday but cites age restrictions as a reason for not participating physically. On social media, he explained the Gen-Z protest's age criterion under 28 years, yet still considers listening to the youth's voices paramount.
