Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who officially took office today, has approved a very important decision regarding the recent Gen Z protest. The interim government has declared those who lost their lives during the Nepal protests as martyrs. It has also announced a financial relief of NPR 10 lakh (6.25 Indian Rupees) for each family.
The movement led to the deaths of a total of 72 people. This includes 59 protesters, 10 prisoners, and 3 security personnel.
Additionally, 134 protesters and 57 security officers were injured. Authorities are still in the process of identifying all the deceased. Some bodies are being found while clearing burnt and damaged areas.
During her first address after assuming office, Prime Minister Karki noted that incidents of arson and vandalism during the Gen Z movement may have been pre-planned. “It seems like a planned act or conspiracy,” she remarked.
Prime Minister Karki officially assumed her role this morning at Singha Durbar, following her appointment by President Ramchandra Paudel on Friday night. The appointment came after the Gen Z protests contributed to the fall of the previous government led by KP Sharma Oli.
On the same day, Karki had taken the oath, dissolved the parliament, and prepared to lead an interim government.
Alongside assuming office, Prime Minister Karki is also preparing to expand her cabinet on a smaller scale. Discussions are ongoing regarding ministerial appointments, and she plans to finalize and announce the new cabinet list today.
In her first act as prime minister, Karki visited hospitals to meet those injured. She expressed concern for their well-being. In addition, she also emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing their needs promptly.
The coming days will reveal more details about the investigation. The ministers who will join Karki in her interim government will also come to light.