Grieving Families Gather in Kathmandu
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — Families mourning the loss of protesters who died during clashes with police convened in the capital on Thursday, voicing their frustration towards authorities and demanding updates on their missing relatives.
Candlelight Vigil for Justice
Relatives held a candlelight vigil outside a hospital morgue in Kathmandu, announcing their intention to meet with military officials to seek justice. Earlier, hundreds flocked to the main airport, trying to leave the country amidst uncertainty over who governs Nepal following violent protests that led to the government’s collapse.
Casualties from Protests
The Health Ministry reported that 34 individuals were killed and 1,368 injured during protests on Monday and Tuesday. These demonstrations were ignited by a brief social media ban and fueled by widespread frustration over corruption and unemployment. The military assumed control of the capital after two consecutive days of large protests that resulted in the resignation of the prime minister and severe damage to government buildings.
Voices for Justice
“We must seek justice for our lost family members and cannot remain silent,” stated Kamal Subedi, who identified himself as a grieving relative. He emphasized that while they have suffered immense loss, political concerns have taken precedence, and no authorities have reached out to them. They seek state honors for their deceased rather than financial compensation.
A Nation in Chaos
In the capital, residents hurried to purchase food staples as the military lifted a curfew briefly. Many aimed to leave as flights resumed on Thursday. Raj Kumar Bika, a chicken farmer attempting to reach New Delhi for business, shared his difficulty in navigating the chaotic airport. Meanwhile, the final day of the Indra Jatra festival was curtailed due to the unrest, with significant changes made to its traditional rituals.
Political Vacuum in Nepal
With the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, the ceremonial President Ram Chandra Poudel asked him to head a transitional government, but Oli’s whereabouts remain unknown. Citizens are left confused about their leadership, with calls for a swift election for new representatives who can effectively govern the country.
Social Media Ban Sparks Outrage
The protests were triggered by a government ban on popular social media platforms, which authorities claimed had not complied with oversight regulations. As officers clashed with protesters, the situation intensified, prompting attacks on government properties. Despite the lifting of the social media ban, protests fueled by anger over the fatalities continued, highlighting broader discontent about the socio-economic challenges faced by the youth in Nepal.
