A confluence of factors, including governmental failure, corruption, and growing inequality, has pushed Nepal into a deep political and social crisis. The Gen Z generation spearheaded a movement that forced the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. With the government dissolved, the army stepped in, imposing a curfew in response to the escalating unrest, marked by the burning of government buildings and residences. The protests were fueled by online critiques of the ‘nepo kids’ – the children of the affluent and powerful – whose luxurious lives, documented on social media, stood in stark contrast to the economic hardships faced by the general population. This digital resentment manifested in street protests, with figures like Shringhala Khatiwada and others facing criticism for their lifestyles. The army’s presence reflects the gravity of the situation, as Nepal navigates a period of uncertainty, exacerbated by reports of corruption and the perceived impunity of the elite. The crisis is a testament to the impact of social media in amplifying discontent and the deep-seated inequalities that have undermined public trust.
