Nepal PM Sushila Karki PC: AP
Newly elected Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki made the announcement on Sunday that victims of the recent Gen Z-led protests who were killed would be formally declared martyrs. She stated her interim administration would provide assistance to the families of the victims and respect the sacrifice of the youth protesters.
"I am heartbroken by the loss incurred by families, particularly those who lost college- and school-going children. Those martyred in the suppression of the Gen Z Revolution will be granted martyr status. Financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh will be given to their families, and support will also be provided to the injured," Karki stated during her inaugural national address.
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Karki, 73, the previous Chief Justice and Nepal's first woman Prime Minister, assumed office just days after a sweeping youth uprising. compelled KP Sharma Oli to resign. She made it clear that her government is working to stabilize the country instead of holding on to power.
My colleagues and I are not here to savour power. We won't linger for more than six months. We will transfer responsibility to the new parliament. We won't succeed without your support," she said, calling for national unity to address political and economic challenges.
The protests erupted in Kathmandu on September 8 after a controversial social media ban, quickly expanding into wider demonstrations against corruption, unemployment, and inequality. At least 51 people died and over 1,300 were injured during clashes with police. Oli's resignation the next day marked the collapse of his Communist Party of Nepal (UML)-led government.
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Referring to the movement as unprecedented, Karki observed: "Twenty-seven hours of non-stop protest is a new thing in Nepal. The demand is for economic equality and an end to corruption. Vandalism perpetrators will be investigated."
President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved parliament at the recommendation of the interim government and declared new elections for March 5 next year. Karki would likely complete her cabinet as her government starts working on reviving stability, restoring trust, and gearing up Nepal for elections.
