Reviving Democracy: Nepal’s Key Political Parties Demand Reinstatement of Dissolved Parliament

Nepal is experiencing a tumultuous political moment. Major parties are urging President Ram Chandra Poudel to restore the parliament he recently dissolved. This decision came after intense protests sparked by a government ban on social media platforms, which left over 50 people dead during clashes with police.

Eight political parties, including the Nepali Congress and the Maoist Centre, criticized Poudel’s move, calling it unconstitutional. They point out it contradicts previous rulings by Nepal’s judiciary. The parliament’s dissolution was a demand from young protesters who identified as “Gen Z.” However, the eight parties argue that the needs of these protesters, including upcoming elections on March 5, should be addressed through a democratic process involving elected representatives.

Poudel has called for calm, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution in these challenging times. He reiterated that the constitution and the democratic framework of Nepal are intact, and emphasized the importance of moving forward to strengthen democracy.

The new interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki, has stepped into a complex situation. As the first female leader of Nepal and a former chief justice, her reputation for integrity is promising. Still, she faces significant challenges, including restoring order and addressing the demands of the Gen Z movement.

Social media played a crucial role in the protests leading up to the ban. Before the unrest, campaigns highlighting the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children had gained traction online. The government’s attempt to restrict social media backfired, intensifying public dissatisfaction with the political elite.

As of now, the streets of Kathmandu are slowly returning to normal. Soldiers who had been deployed to maintain order have returned to their bases. The violence surrounding the protests raised alarm about the future of Nepal’s democracy, making the upcoming elections even more critical.

It’s a pivotal time for Nepal. Leaders must navigate these turbulent waters to ensure fair representation and restorative justice for those affected by the unrest. As Karki prepares to form her cabinet, the eyes of the nation are on her, hoping for a resolution that addresses the people’s growing demands for change.

For more on the implications of these protests, check out BBC Nepal and their in-depth reporting.

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