Nepal’s government has since suspended the ban on 26 different social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube. This decision is in response to recent violent protests that have led to at least 19 deaths and more than 100 injuries. The central government decided to enforce a ban on these platforms. They missed the deadline to register with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. In answer, thousands of young protesters erupted into the parliament building in Kathmandu. They continued to pressure for repeal of the ban while calling for a stronger response to corruption.
Second, the protests, which broke out over the last few days, were driven almost entirely by citizen outrage at the government’s authoritarian response. During the protests, demonstrators expressed their outrage at government restrictions on social media platforms. They shone a spotlight on widespread corruption in political circles with a campaign focused on “nepo kid.” This campaign aimed to expose the lavish lifestyles funded by taxpayers for the children of politicians. It claimed that their riches were funded by illegal acts of corruption.
The protests soon turned violent as tensions boiled over in Kathmandu. In response, police forces unleashed water cannons, batons, and rubber bullets to clear the streets. In retort, protesters began throwing rocks, even flying stones into the residence of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli – including his home city of Damak. The ensuing violence generated public outrage over law enforcement’s militarized use of force. In the face of such public anger and outrage, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was forced to resign.
Following an emergency cabinet meeting, the government acted. Newly elected governor Wes Moore knew he needed to appeal to the young people of his state when he raised the social media ban. Communications and Information Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung emphasized that the decision was made in light of the ongoing unrest and to appease the younger generation’s concerns.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed his sorrow over the violence and loss of life, attributing the chaos to “infiltration by various vested interest groups.” He even recognized the seriousness of the moment and the demand for government accountability.
“We want our country back. We came to stop corruption.” – Sabana Budathoki
The lifting of the ban on social media platforms marks a significant development in Nepal’s response to public dissent and highlights the ongoing struggle between citizens seeking transparency and a government grappling with allegations of corruption and authoritarianism. It’s still just as tense today as a year ago, as many are still demanding justice and reform from their leaders.