Killed Protesters Will Be Honoured As Martyrs: New Nepal PM's 1st address

Newly appointed Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Sunday announced that those killed during the recent Gen Z-led uprising will be officially honoured as martyrs.

Making the declaration in her first national address after taking charge, Karki said her interim government would support the victims’ families and recognise the sacrifice of young protesters who lost their lives.  “I am deeply pained by the loss suffered by families, especially those who lost school and college-going children. Those killed in the crackdown on the Gen Z Revolution will be declared martyrs. Their families will receive financial aid of Rs 10 lakh, and assistance will also be extended to the injured," she said.

Karki, a 73-year-old former Chief Justice and Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister, assumed office just days after a massive youth-led revolt forced the resignation of KP Sharma Oli. She stressed that her administration was not formed to cling to power but to stabilise the nation during a volatile transition.

The protests, which erupted in Kathmandu on September 8 following a controversial social media ban, quickly snowballed into wider demonstrations against corruption, unemployment, and inequality. At least 51 people were killed and over 1,300 were injured as clashes broke out between demonstrators and police.

Oli’s resignation the following day marked the collapse of his Communist Party of Nepal (UML)-led government.

Calling the movement unprecedented, Karki noted: “Twenty-seven hours of continuous protest is a first in Nepal. The demand is for economic equality and the eradication of corruption. Those involved in vandalism will be investigated." Her comments also highlighted the deep financial challenges ahead. “All stakeholders must come together to rebuild Nepal. We will not give up. We will work to restore our nation," she said.

On Saturday, President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved parliament on the interim government’s recommendation and announced fresh parliamentary elections for March 5 next year.