On the first anniversary of the deadly protests that challenged the Nepalese government, people gathered in Kathmandu to honor the victims. This gathering took place while Nepal is still mourning the disaster of the devastating floods two weeks ago.
Roots of Discontent and Its Consequences
The protests began from September ۸ to ۹, ۲۰۲۵, initially sparked by a short-term government ban on social media. However, these grievances had deeper roots stemming from economic problems, corruption, and outdated political practices. In this unrest, ۷۶ people lost their lives, and the parliament building, the prime minister's office, and other government buildings were set on fire. These events led to the fall of the government of K.P. Sharma Oli and ultimately resulted in the election of the young prime minister, Balendra Shah, in March.
Diverse Views on Changes
Ashta Shrestha, a former protester, said beside the ruins of the burned buildings, "The loss of life was truly horrific. But the impact on policies was worth it, and changes are evident." She felt that the current government respects the victims of the people. While banners with images of the victims were installed in the parliament area, Balendra Shah also stated in a message that he hopes this anniversary will inspire a move towards a just and transparent Nepal.
Sushila Karki, the interim prime minister of Nepal after Oli's fall, paid tribute to the victims and called for responsibilities to be carried out responsibly and vigilantly so that there would be no need for protests for change. An investigative commission on the violence published a report in April that referenced the misconduct of several officials, including Oli. According to this report, ۵۱ of the victims were shot dead, but there is still no real accountability.
Anis Acharya, another protester, while coming with flowers to remember the victims, said, "Why did we sacrifice our lives? I see no hope for change. Oli was arrested the day after the protests, but now the criminals are free and walking in the streets."
Meanwhile, Shah's government faces more serious challenges. The glacial flood disaster at the border with China, which occurred on August ۲۶, resulted in the deaths of at least ۱,۳۹۹ people in both countries, and ۵,۵۰۰ others are still missing.
