Gen-Z protests erupt in Nepal again, curfew reimposed in Bara district

Authorities in Bara district have prohibited public gatherings after members of the Gen Z movement confronted loyalists of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli’s CPN-UML.

Officials said the curfew will remain in place until 8 pm (local time) on Thursday to stabilise the situation.

Tensions escalated on Wednesday when both groups held simultaneous rallies in the Simara area, leading to physical altercations—including near the airport—prompting the administration to impose restrictions.

“The situation is normal… no one suffered serious injuries,” Nepal Police spokesperson Abi Narayan Kafle told AFP.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki urged restraint and appealed to all political factions to avoid provocation ahead of the March 5, 2026, elections.

“I have instructed the Home Administration and security agencies to act with utmost restraint to maintain peace and order,” she said, adding that ensuring safe political movement and a fair pre-election environment was a priority.

Karki also met representatives from over 110 political parties, emphasising the need for a future shaped by younger leadership. “We want this country to be in the hands of a new generation, led by people with vision,” she said.

Nepal’s Gen Z uprising

The September 8–9 protests, sparked by a temporary social media ban, quickly grew into a nationwide revolt fuelled by frustration over years of economic stagnation and deep-rooted corruption.

At least 76 people were killed as demonstrators, under the broad “Gen Z” banner, torched government buildings, courts, and parliament.

The violence ultimately led to the removal of 73-year-old KP Sharma Oli, with former Chief Justice Karki appointed as interim prime minister to guide the country toward elections.