Nepal PM Karki Urges Calm as Fresh Gen Z Protests Trigger Extended Curfew in Bara District

Nepal’s interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has called for restraint and warned political actors against provocation following fresh clashes between Gen Z activists and supporters of the former ruling Communist Party of Nepal–Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) in the southern Bara district. The renewed confrontations prompted authorities to extend the curfew until 8 pm on Thursday to prevent further escalation and maintain public order.

Tensions flared on Wednesday when both groups held parallel rallies in Simara, near Bara’s airport, leading to scuffles that forced security forces to intervene and impose curfew restrictions. Although the police reported that the situation later stabilized with no serious injuries, protests re-emerged on Thursday morning, compelling authorities to continue the restrictions. The district administration emphasized the importance of controlling the unrest as the nation approaches national elections scheduled for March 5, 2026.

The recent clashes follow a major youth-led uprising in September, often referred to as the “Gen Z uprising,” which led to the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The movement began as protests against a brief social media ban but expanded to highlight deep-rooted issues like economic stagnation and corruption. The September unrest resulted in the deaths of at least 76 people nationwide, widespread violence, and the burning of government buildings including parliament and courts.

Also Read: #JustIn: Nepal Imposes Indefinite Curfew as Gen Z Activists, UML Loyalists Trigger Violent Clashes

In response to the ongoing unrest, PM Karki met with representatives of over 110 political parties, underscoring the need for generational change and visionary leadership to guide Nepal through its fragile transition. She stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, fair, and fear-free environment for all political activities and elections, instructing security agencies to act with utmost restraint.

Human Rights Watch has criticized security forces for allegedly using excessive force during the September protests, highlighting incidents of police firing without warning and mistreatment of detainees. An independent judicial commission has been tasked with investigating the deaths and violence that occurred during that period. As Nepal navigates this complex political landscape, PM Karki’s administration faces the challenge of restoring public trust and maintaining peace amid ongoing political fragmentation and public anger.

Also Read: Gen Z Leads Mexico-Wide Protests Honoring Slain Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo