Kathmandu, September 14: Newly appointed Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Sunday announced that those killed during the recent Gen Z-led uprising will be formally recognised as martyrs, pledging state support for their families.
In her first national address since assuming office, the 73-year-old former Chief Justice and Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister said the interim government would extend financial relief and acknowledge the sacrifices of the young demonstrators.
“I am deeply pained by the grief of families who lost loved ones, especially school- and college-going children. Those killed in the crackdown on the Gen Z Revolution will be declared martyrs. Their families will receive financial aid of Rs 10 lakh, while the injured will also be assisted,” Karki announced.
Karki assumed leadership days after mass protests forced the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and the collapse of his Communist Party of Nepal (UML)-led government. Stressing that her administration’s role is transitional, she said:
“My team and I are not here to cling to power. We will not remain beyond six months. Our duty is to guide the country through this volatile phase and hand over responsibility to the newly elected parliament. We will not succeed without the people’s support.”
The protests, which began in Kathmandu on September 8 after a controversial social media ban, swiftly grew into a nationwide movement against corruption, unemployment, and inequality. At least 51 people were killed and more than 1,300 injured during violent clashes with security forces.
Calling the movement “unprecedented,” Karki highlighted the urgency of addressing Nepal’s financial and governance challenges:
“Twenty-seven hours of continuous protest is a first in Nepal. The demand is for economic equality and an end to corruption. While those involved in vandalism will face investigation, the message of the youth cannot be ignored. All stakeholders must come together to rebuild Nepal.”
On Saturday, President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved parliament on the interim government’s recommendation and announced fresh elections for March 5 next year. Karki is expected to finalise her cabinet today, as her government begins the difficult task of restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and preparing the country for polls.
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