Nepal Lifts Curfew in Kathmandu as Calm Returns After Deadly Protests Leave 51 Dead and Sushila Karki Appointed First Woman Prime Minister

Published Time: 09-13-2025, 17:45

Nepal has lifted a days-long curfew in its capital and surrounding districts following mass protests that left at least 51 people dead and forced the resignation of the prime minister. Authorities say order has been restored as Sushila Karki, the nation’s first woman prime minister, assumes office and pledges to restore stability.

Curfew Lifted in Kathmandu Valley

Officials confirmed Saturday that residents in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur can once again move freely after restrictions were removed. Shops reopened, traffic resumed, and markets saw crowds returning for the first time in nearly a week.

The curfew, imposed late Tuesday, had permitted only a few hours each day for residents to leave their homes for food and essential supplies. Authorities said lifting the restrictions was possible after days of negotiations and relative calm in the streets.

Protests Sparked by Social Media Ban

The unrest began Monday after the government temporarily banned Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, citing concerns over compliance with registration and oversight rules. The move triggered a wave of anger, particularly among younger citizens, who viewed it as an attack on free expression.

Although the ban was quickly withdrawn, demonstrations escalated into broader protests against political corruption, inequality, and frustration with entrenched elites. Protesters attacked government offices, set fire to parliament and the presidential residence, and clashed with security forces.

Police opened fire during several confrontations, and officials confirmed that most of the victims were demonstrators. Some fatalities also occurred in prison riots, where inmates attempted mass escapes. Three police officers were among the dead, according to Nepal Police.

Transition of Power

The political crisis came to a head Friday when President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved parliament and appointed Sushila Karki, 73, as interim prime minister. Elections have been scheduled for March 5, 2026, the president’s office announced.

Karki, a respected former Supreme Court Chief Justice, is remembered for her 2016–2017 tenure as the country’s only female chief justice and her stance against corruption. She was sworn in Friday evening in Kathmandu.

A Historic Appointment

On her first day in office, Karki visited injured protesters at Civil Hospital in Kathmandu. According to the Associated Press (AP), she told one patient recovering from gunshot wounds: “I will work with everything I have.” She made no formal public statement but pledged to prioritize the nation’s stability.

Karki succeeds former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, who resigned Tuesday and vacated his residence amid escalating unrest. The army assumed control of the streets that evening, acting as mediator between protesters, political leaders, and the presidency until the interim appointment was confirmed.

Anger Among Nepal’s Youth

The demonstrations, widely labeled the “Protest of Gen Z,” underscored frustrations among younger Nepalis over inequality and lack of opportunity. Many accused political leaders’ children—nicknamed “nepo kids”—of enjoying privilege and luxury while most youth struggle to secure jobs or stable futures.

Analysts note that while the immediate spark was the social media ban, the deeper grievances reflect years of dissatisfaction with governance, corruption, and slow economic progress. The protests mark one of the most significant youth-led uprisings in Nepal’s recent history.

Casualties and Community Impact

At least 51 people lost their lives during the unrest, including protesters, inmates, and three police officers. Hospitals across Kathmandu reported treating dozens of patients with gunshot wounds and injuries sustained during clashes.

The violence left parts of the capital scarred, with damaged government buildings, burned vehicles, and shattered storefronts. Despite the lifting of the curfew, police and army patrols remain stationed across the city to maintain order.

Looking Ahead

Nepal now faces a critical political transition. With elections scheduled for March, the interim government under Prime Minister Karki is tasked with restoring public trust and ensuring a credible electoral process.

Observers say her reputation as a reformer could help bridge divides, though the scale of youth discontent poses ongoing challenges. International partners, including human rights groups, have urged Nepalese authorities to safeguard free expression and avoid excessive use of force.

Conclusion

The end of the curfew in Kathmandu marks a tentative step toward normalcy after a week of deadly protests and political upheaval. With Sushila Karki making history as Nepal’s first woman prime minister, the coming months will test whether her leadership can stabilize the country, address youth frustrations, and guide Nepal toward peaceful elections.