Protests erupted across Kathmandu, Nepal, on Tuesday after the sudden removal of Kulman Ghising, the Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). Demonstrators clashed with police near the parliament and burned the effigy of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, demanding Ghising’s reinstatement.
Clashes and Effigy Burning
The All Nepal National Independent Students Union (Revolutionary) led the protests, chanting slogans such as:
- “Ujyalo Nepal Zindabad.”
- “Adharo Sarkar Murdabad.”
- “Kulman Ghising Zindabad.”
Protesters tried to breach restricted areas, leading to clashes with Nepal Police. The protests intensified after Ghising was dismissed following a cabinet meeting at Singha Durbar on Monday evening.
Shakya Replaces Ghising Amid Public Outrage
Following Ghising’s removal, Hitendra Dev Shakya assumed office as NEA’s new Managing Director. Shakya, who previously led NEA but was replaced by Ghising, had fought a legal battle to challenge his removal. His petition remained pending in the Supreme Court for years without a verdict.
Backed by the ruling alliance of the Nepali Congress (NC) and CPN-UML, Shakya’s return to NEA has fueled public dissatisfaction. Shakya’s initial four-year term under PM Oli was cut short when Sher Bahadur Deuba’s government reappointed Ghising in 2078 BS.
Political Motives Behind Ghising’s Removal
Critics have accused the government of prioritizing political interests over institutional stability. Despite receiving high performance scores of 94.23% in 2021-22 and 98.94% in 2022-23, Ghising was awarded zero marks for his performance in 2023-24. This poor evaluation, which contradicted his self-assessment of 98.99%, was used to justify his removal.
Ghising’s Achievements and Public Support
Ghising is credited with transforming Nepal’s electricity sector by ending 18-hour power cuts and ensuring energy stability. His dismissal has sparked widespread support, with many viewing it as a “political coup”.
Protests Continue to Grow
Narayan Sharma, a protester, said, “With this reactionary move by PM KP Sharma Oli, we have taken to the streets again to protect democracy and institutional integrity.” As public outrage grows, demonstrations are expected to continue across Nepal.
