Bloody and violent unrest in Nepal:
At least 20 people were killed and more than 400 injured in the ‘Massacre of 8 September’.
This tragic event is the latest chapter in Nepal’s turbulent history of the last 30 years.
Widespread and violent unrest has been ongoing in Nepal for almost four days, resulting in many deaths and injuries, as well as arson attacks on public and private buildings. This has led to the resignation of the Prime Minister and other ministers. The situation remains very tense.
It all began as a peaceful demonstration, mainly by young people, against corruption, political instability, and the ban on social media channels. It is likely that criminal gangs and various other troublemakers mingled with the young people and fuelled the rallies. Security forces intervened on a large scale, using tear gas and rubber bullets, and later live ammunition, against the protesters. The tragic loss of life and destruction of cultural heritage and private property, primarily through arson, has left Nepal in a state of paralysis.
In recent days, the army has attempted to calm the situation. Government buildings and institutions are being guarded by curfews and a large-scale deployment of personnel.
Initial initiatives are underway to find a new path forward. Talks are taking place between the President, the Army Leadership, political parties, and representatives of the Gen Z youth movement, which are certainly proving very challenging. The first potential new leaders are positioning themselves or being brought into play.
It is currently impossible to predict how the situation in Nepal will develop.
Political instability, follow-up costs of severe destruction, and social tensions will certainly impact Nepal’s immediate future.
We are in contact with our friends and partners in Nepal. They are all watching the situation unfold with excitement and, in some cases, fear. They too do not know how things will progress.
Above all, our thoughts are with the many young people who have died or been injured, their families, and all those who have lost their possessions. Our thoughts are also with the cultural sites that have inevitably been destroyed.
From the international press:
Nepali Times : What next, Nepal
Deutsche Welle: Nepal Proteste social Media ban Sperre
