After Violent Gen Z-Led Protests Topple PM KP Oli, Nation Awaits President’s Nod on Popular Technocrat as Interim PM
Kul Man Ghising Emerges as Top Pick Amid Political Chaos
Nepal is on the brink of a political reset after three days of violent anti-corruption protests left 31 people dead and forced Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign. The likely interim leader? Kul Man Ghising, a celebrated electrical engineer credited with ending Nepal’s infamous power crisis.
Ghising’s name was proposed by the ‘Gen Z protest’ movement, which gained momentum after a government-imposed ban on social media platforms sparked widespread unrest.
Top 10 Highlights of the Political Crisis in Nepal
1. Kul Man Ghising – From Power Grid to Power Seat
- Ghising, former Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, is praised as a problem-solver and patriot.
- Protesters called him “everyone’s favorite” during a six-hour virtual meeting to choose a leader.
2. Other Names Considered
- Kathmandu Mayor Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah, a rapper-turned-politician popular among youth.
- Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, known for her anti-corruption stance.
3. Why Balen Shah Stepped Back
- Despite massive popularity, Shah declined to lead the interim administration.
- He urged calm and unity via social media posts amid growing unrest.
4. Ex-Chief Justice Sushila Karki Rejected
- A faction within protesters argued:
- The Nepal Constitution bars former judges from holding executive office.
- At 73 years old, she was seen as too old to lead a youth-driven movement.
5. Army’s Temporary Control and Possible Emergency
- Nepal Army, led by General Ashok Raj Sigdel, has assumed temporary control.
- A state of emergency could be declared within 48 hours before the interim PM is sworn in.
6. What the Constitution Says
- As per the 2015 Nepal Constitution:
- A majority party forms the government.
- If no majority, the President appoints a PM to face a vote of confidence.
- Failure could dissolve Parliament, triggering fresh elections.
7. Violence on the Streets
- Protests led to:
- 31 deaths and over 1,300 injuries.
- Government offices, including Singha Durbar, were stormed.
- Former ministers and families attacked.
8. How the Protests Began
- Triggered by a social media ban on platforms like YouTube and X (Twitter).
- Young Nepalis rely on these for livelihoods, especially during high unemployment.
9. Demands of the Protesters
- A corruption-free government.
- Focus on economic development, digital freedom, and youth employment.
10. KP Sharma Oli Resigns and Disappears
- The former PM fled Kathmandu in a military aircraft.
- His exact whereabouts remain unknown.
What’s Next for Nepal?
- The interim government structure remains unclear.
- President Ram Chandra Paudel must soon decide on Ghising or an alternative leader.
- The Army says it will relinquish control once a legitimate interim PM is appointed.
Kul Man Ghising: A Technocrat Turned Savior?
- Ghising gained nationwide respect by eliminating load-shedding during his tenure at Nepal Electricity Authority.
- Protesters believe his non-political background and problem-solving record make him the ideal interim PM to steer Nepal through this turbulent phase.
As Nepal stands at a critical crossroads, the world watches closely to see whether a technocrat like Kul Man Ghising can bridge the gap between a disillusioned youth and a fractured political system. Whether his leadership will restore stability or spark further unrest remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: the voice of a new generation is no longer silent in the Himalayan republic.
Related News : Nepal in Turmoil: PM KP Sharma Oli Resigns Amid Gen Z-Led Anti-Corruption Riots