In a fast-paced 48 hours, Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, witnessed a surge of youth-led protests resulting in the ousting of the country’s prime minister and the destruction of key government buildings. The swift overthrow of Nepal’s ruling government by the younger generation, orchestrated through social media platforms like TikTok and Discord, has left those advocating for change astounded.
Tanuja Pandey, a 25-year-old lawyer and environmental activist, described the unfolding events as unexpected, emphasizing the loss of friends and the overwhelming nature of the movement. The protests claimed the lives of 74 individuals, including demonstrators, police officers, and inmates attempting to escape during the chaos, with over 2,100 others sustaining injuries.
Following the upheaval, Nepal swiftly appointed a new interim prime minister, scheduled early elections for the upcoming year, and established a judicial commission to probe the violence that led to the government’s downfall. Despite the bittersweet sentiment surrounding the movement’s success in holding the government accountable, Pandey stressed the necessity of the upheaval.
The revolution, triggered by a social media ban targeting 26 platforms, unveiled deep-seated resentment towards the ruling elite’s offspring flaunting extravagant lifestyles. The disparity between the privileged class and the struggling working-class youth fueled the anti-corruption protests, with a particular focus on the lavish displays of nepotism.
Harnessing the power of social media, particularly TikTok and Discord, protesters mobilized and communicated effectively, leading to the selection of an interim leader online. The trend of youth-led protests in South Asia, including Nepal, reflects a regional discontent with corruption, cronyism, and limited economic opportunities, culminating in the downfall of governments.
Although the future remains uncertain for Nepal, with elections on the horizon and a history of political instability, the youth activists are determined to steer the country towards positive change. While challenges persist, the resounding message from the protests is one of hope and resilience, echoing the sentiment that nothing is insurmountable in the pursuit of a better society.
