KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) – On Thursday, hundreds of individuals gathered at Kathmandu’s main airport, eager to secure flights out of Nepal amidst the chaos following violent protests that led to the government’s downfall. Confusion over governance has gripped the nation as citizens seek answers after the recent upheaval.
Residents rushed to buy essential food items such as rice, vegetables, and meat during a brief curfew lift by the army. Armed soldiers patrolled the streets, inspecting vehicles and assisting those in need. The military took control of Kathmandu late Tuesday after two days of massive demonstrations that resulted in severe damage, including the torching of the presidential residence and other government buildings. Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli was forced to resign and subsequently fled.
As the airport reopened on Wednesday, international flights recommenced, leading many desperate citizens to attempt to leave the country. Raj Kumar Bika, a chicken farmer, recounted his struggles to reach the airport but ultimately secured a flight to New Delhi for business.
The situation remains uncertain regarding who will assume leadership in the interim. President Ram Chandra Poudel had initially asked Prime Minister Oli to head a transitional government, yet Oli's disappearance has left the nation in a state of limbo. Residents expressed the need for timely elections to restore order and leadership. Shop owner Sanu Bohara remarked that the country required new leaders focused on peace, emphasizing the unfortunate destruction witnessed during the protests.
Negotiations for an interim leader took place between protest leaders and military personnel at the army headquarters in Kathmandu. Protest representative Rehan Raj Dangal suggested Sushila Karki, a widely-respected former chief justice, for the role. However, her potential appointment has met resistance from other protest groups.
The unrest initially stemmed from a government ban on social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, intended to regulate their oversight. The ban prompted mass protests, which escalated to violence, leading to casualties as police opened fire on demonstrators. Following the lifting of the ban, the protests continued, fueled by outrage over the deaths of approximately 30 protesters attributed to police actions.
The protests also highlighted broader societal grievances, particularly among young people frustrated by the stark contrast between their struggles and the lavish lifestyles of political elites—often referred to as “nepo kids.” With youth unemployment around 20%, many young Nepalis are seeking opportunities abroad, departing daily for destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Vandalism during the protests resulted in significant damages, including the parliament building, the presidential residence, and the office of the prime minister. The Kantipur publication building, a leading media outlet, also suffered severe damage. Amidst the turmoil, Asmita Poudel, who was set to board a flight to Dubai, lamented the lack of opportunities in Nepal, asserting that many youths would choose to stay if better prospects existed.
The military's intervention is notable as it rarely engages in civilian unrest. Initially remaining in barracks, the armed forces began to mobilize when police struggled to control the violence. The Health Ministry reported that the overall death toll had reached 30, with over 1,000 individuals injured, as reports continued to surface from various regions.
On Wednesday, soldiers managed to quell a jailbreak in central Kathmandu, where inmates had overpowered guards and attempted an escape. Swift military action restored order without any reported injuries.
