Karki or Ghising? Gen Z Split on Nepal's Future

 

In the face of growing anti-corruption protests in Nepal, Gen Z protesters seem to be split over a potential interim government leadership. While some have supported former chief justice Sushila Karki, another has nominated Kulman Ghising, former chief of Nepal Electricity Authority, who is famous for solving Nepal's energy crisis.

The protests, fueled by a short-term social media ban, have grown stronger as a result of long-standing complaints of corruption, inequality, and limited opportunities. The violent protests in Kathmandu killed 31, with 25 identified so far, as per the Department of Forensic Medicine at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. "We have done a postmortem as per international protocol," said Dr. Gopal Kumar Chaudhary, the department head.

Key highlights:

• Gen Z protesters in Nepal are divided over interim leadership, with factions supporting former Chief Justice Sushila Karki and ex-NEA chief Kulman Ghising
• Violent protests over corruption and inequality have resulted in 31 deaths in Kathmandu, intensifying calls for political overhaul
• Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah backs Karki for interim government leadership, while opponents argue constitutional limits bar her candidacy

An argument made in one of the well-known television contended Karki is disqualified by constitutional provisions prohibiting erstwhile judges and candidates above 70. "She cannot be a representative for Gen Z," the collective claimed, campaigning for Ghising instead as a "patriotic figure who could bring the youth together."

But another Gen Z faction, and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, back Karki. "We call on the President to dissolve Parliament and form an interim government under the leadership of Karki immediately," Shah commented. Karki has indicated willingness, reportedly having meetings at military headquarters.

Also Read: Consequences of Nepal Crisis on South Asian Business Growth

Nepal's capital city airport, closed during the unrest, is now open again. While recording promised GDP growth of 4.9 Percent during H1FY25, a World Bank report identifies sluggish job creation and increasing inequality, tamping down youth anger. The masses are now demanding a complete overhaul of Nepal's political system.