Will Nepal's Gen Z Lead to New Leadership in Upcoming Elections?

New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) The protests led by Gen Z in Nepal resulted in the downfall of K.P. Sharma Oli's administration, paving the way for an interim government to take charge. While Gen Z succeeded in dismantling a corrupt regime, the interim government under Sushila Karki faces a monumental challenge ahead.

The populace is demanding a crackdown on corruption, leaving the interim government with substantial work to do in this area. However, their most significant challenge lies in organizing elections promptly. Citizens hope for new and transparent political candidates to emerge, ensuring effective governance.

Analyzing the interim cabinet members reveals a clear commitment to addressing corruption head-on. Notable figures include Rameshwor Khanal, a distinguished economist and former bureaucrat, now serving as finance minister, and Kulman Ghising, the energy minister credited with reforming Nepal's power sector. Om Prakash Aryal, a human rights lawyer, takes on the role of home affairs minister.

With such prominent individuals in the cabinet, public expectations are high. Their responsibilities extend beyond purging corruption and facilitating elections, as citizens yearn for a restoration of faith in the political system.

The interim government acknowledged the protestors who lost their lives, designating them as martyrs, and announced an inquiry commission to investigate the violence and arson that occurred during the protests. However, this presents a tricky situation for the interim government, as there is a risk of placing the blame solely on the protestors, potentially leading to dissatisfaction among Gen Z. Furthermore, individuals from the previous regime whose decisions incited the protests may escape accountability.

Additionally, the interim government must rebuild judicial institutions and police stations that were damaged during the protests. The historic Singha Durbar, which has served as the administrative hub since 1908, also requires reconstruction.

The roles of Home and Finance Minister are among the most challenging in Nepal today. Security concerns have contributed to a significant decline in tourism—a vital revenue source for the nation—and restoring this sector will be arduous.

During the protests, hotels accommodating tourists were targeted, and reports surfaced of Indian nationals being unable to return home peacefully due to the unrest. This turmoil has placed immense strain on the tourism industry.

As a result of the uprising, investor confidence in Nepal has substantially waned. Addressing this issue promptly is essential, along with devising a budget for reconstruction and restoration of the damage incurred during the protests.

Sushila Karki, serving as the interim prime minister, is under scrutiny both domestically and internationally. A highly regarded figure with a background as Nepal's chief justice, she has garnered the support of Gen Z, who have placed their hopes on her leadership.

While these challenges will gradually be tackled, the primary hurdle remains the elections themselves. This process will not merely be a routine exercise; the results will serve as a true measure of whether fresh leaders, untainted by privilege and corruption, can emerge victorious.

Since the monarchy's fall in 2008, Nepal has experienced numerous upheavals, yet the nation has persevered through each crisis. However, the current situation is distinct, characterized by extensive rebuilding efforts, reconstruction, and a collective desire for a departure from the usual political faces in future elections.