Kathmandu on edge: Amid the ongoing tussle and twists over the formation of an Interim Government in Nepal, a meeting is taking place between former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, chosen by a powerful faction of Gen Z to lead the country during its transition, and President Ram Chandra Paudel at an undisclosed location.
According to highly placed sources, the Army leadership is also present at the closed-door meeting, where a decision on the leader of the Interim Government could be made.
As the Himalayan nation waits for its new leader with bated breath, sources said a formal announcement of the Interim Government’s leader is expected by midnight.
The development comes just hours after Kulman Ghising, former Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, emerged as the new frontrunner to lead the transitional government in Nepal.
The Gen Zs have reportedly split into factions. While one supports Karki to lead the Interim Government, the other backs Ghising.
Meanwhile, an MP told The Statesman that preparations are underway and the Army is moving into Kathmandu.
“Preparations are underway. The Army is moving into Kathmandu. It’s chaotic. There are even rumors the King might return. We are going to be arrested. This is undemocratic and unwanted,” the MP, who did not wish to be named, told The Statesman.
Nepal plunged into crisis after thousands of Gen Z protesters hit the streets against rampant corruption and nepotism.
The Gen Z protests, triggered by a social media ban that was later lifted. It turned violent on Monday when police opened fire on demonstrators in Kathmandu.
At least 19 people were killed in the firing, which sparked large-scale violence. The toll later surged to 36 as rampaging Gen Z protesters set fire to the Parliament building and several homes of government elites.
Ministers were chased through the streets and thrashed by angry protesters, while Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was moved to an undisclosed location. Oli later resigned, prompting the Nepali Army to take control of security operations.