The Gen Z Andolan Movement and Its Aftermath

The Gen Z Andolan movement that took place on September 8 and 9 has changed the country's political direction. An interim government has now been formed under the leadership of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki. This government's main task is to hold elections for the House of Representatives by March 5 of next year. While life in the Kathmandu Valley is slowly returning to normal, the situation is not yet fully stable. The movement, which began as a peaceful protest against corruption and poor governance, turned violent. During the first day of the government's response, 19 people lost their lives. The total number of deaths during the movement has now reached 73.

Leaders Who Have Returned to Public Life

After the state's harsh response on the first day, the angry public targeted private and government properties on the second day. They set fires, damaged buildings, and targeted political party leaders, workers, and high-level officials. The Nepali Army had to rescue the Prime Minister, ministers, and other officials to safe locations. As daily life has improved in recent days, some ministers and leaders from various political parties have slowly started appearing in public again. Leaders from the Congress and UML parties, as well as Maoist chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and other senior figures, have been seen at their residences and party offices. They are encouraging their party workers to rebuild from the damage.

Leaders Who Remain Out of Public View

Even ten days after the movement, several major leaders have not yet appeared in public. This includes UML chairman and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Congress president and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and other senior leaders from both parties. It is reported that Oli and the Deuba couple are still under the protection of the Army. Other leaders are under the protection of the Nepal Police. Protesters had attacked Mr. Deuba's private residence in Budhanilkantha on the second day of the movement. While some former prime ministers and ministers returned to public places after about a week, high-level sources confirm that Oli and Deuba remain under army protection. Mr. Deuba and his wife are also reportedly receiving medical treatment under army supervision.

Reason for Continued Absence and Upcoming Events

Security sources indicate that leaders like Oli, Deuba, and others will not appear in public for the next few days. It is also reported that they will not participate in the Constitution Day events scheduled for September 19. In their absence, other leaders will attend and manage the various programs planned for the occasion.