Mass protests led by Nepal’s Gen Z have shaken the political landscape, forcing the government to reverse a sweeping ban on major social media platforms after security forces killed at least 19 people in violent clashes. In the aftermath, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned, and attention has turned to appointing an interim leader. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been proposed by protest leaders as a credible, independent figure capable of guiding the country through reform and maintaining public trust.

The Spark: Social Media, Inequality & Youth Discontent

Nepal’s unrest erupted when the government ordered a block on dozens of social media platforms—including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube—for failing to comply with registration demands imposed by the Communications Ministry.

Many protesters said this ban was the final straw in a long history of perceived corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation. Viral content among young people—highlighting “nepo-kids” (children of political elites flaunting privilege)—amplified resentment.

Clashes broke out when students and young activists took to the streets. Security forces deployed tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets—and in some cases, live rounds. The death toll—officially reported as 19 initially, with higher counts in later reports—and hundreds injured underscored the seriousness of the state response.

Government Reversals and Resignation

Under mounting pressure—both from protests and international concern—the government lifted the social media ban when it became clear that the backlash was widespread and intense. In a concession to protesters, officials said there would be compensation and medical help for victims, and that an investigative panel would be formed to examine the use of lethal force.

Prime Minister Oli subsequently resigned, as did some cabinet members. During this transition, large parts of Kathmandu were under curfew, schools, colleges, and many businesses were shut, and the army was visible in key areas.

Who is Sushila Karki—and What Role Might She Play?

Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has become the symbolic and operational focal point for many protesters seeking an interim leader. She is viewed as non-partisan, respected for her work in the judiciary, and capable of holding state institutions to account.

Protest representatives have formally proposed her as the head of an interim government. While she has reportedly agreed in principle, the arrangement faces legal and constitutional questions—particularly around how much power an interim leader would have, what timeline would be followed, and how to maintain legitimacy.

Other names have been floated in the margins—such as Balendra “Balen” Shah, the independent mayor of Kathmandu, and Kulman Ghising, known for solving the power crisis in Nepal. Yet many protesters seem to favour Karki for her perceived neutrality.