A curfew has been initiated in select areas of Nepal due to renewed tensions between young demonstrators and supporters of a former government, specifically the Communist Party of Nepal – Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML). This unrest follows the violent 'Gen Z' uprising in September, which resulted in significant casualties and political upheaval. The curfew, imposed in the Bara district, will be in effect until 8 PM local time on Thursday, as the authorities work to reinstate order in the region.
The clashes erupted during concurrent rallies held by members of the Gen Z movement and CPN-UML workers in the Simara area, near the airport, leading to scuffles that prompted the curfew. Despite the chaos, authorities indicated that no severe injuries were reported.
Amidst these developments, Prime Minister Sushila Karki has called for tranquility and urged all political factions to avoid provocations as the country gears up for its national elections, set for March 5, 2026. Karki, appointed following the September protests, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and securing a fair election landscape. She instructed the Home Administration and security forces to exercise restraint in order to facilitate a secure environment for political activities.
At a meeting attended by representatives from over 110 political parties, Karki expressed intentions to empower a new generation of leadership and enhance governance through innovation and vision.
The underlying grievances that sparked the September protests—a brief government-led ban on social media—were exacerbated by longstanding issues of economic stagnation and systemic corruption that had plagued the nation of approximately 30 million. The widespread discontent led to violent demonstrations which resulted in the tragic loss of at least 76 lives, widespread destruction, and the eventual ousting of the previous prime minister, KP Sharma Oli, who had served four terms in office. Amidst the tumult, Karki is striving to guide Nepal toward stability and a participatory democratic process as the date for the upcoming elections approaches.