Curfew is lifted and calm returns to Nepal in wake of mass protests that killed at least 51 people

KATHMANDU, Nepal — Nepal lifted the curfew in its capital and surrounding areas on Saturday as peace returned following the historic appointment of the country’s first female prime minister in the aftermath of deadly protests that led to the collapse of the government.

In Kathmandu and neighboring Lalitpur and Bhaktapur, authorities announced the end of the curfew, allowing people to move freely as markets reopened and traffic resumed on the streets.

The protests, which started over a social media ban, quickly escalated into violence with demonstrators attacking government buildings and police responding with force.

Despite the ban being lifted, unrest continued due to broader grievances. Tens of thousands of protesters vandalized and set fire to the parliament, the presidential residence, and businesses.

Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki was appointed interim prime minister by President Ram Chandra Poudel, who dissolved parliament and scheduled elections for March 5. Karki, known for her anti-corruption stance, was sworn in on Friday.

On her first day in office, Karki visited injured protesters at the Civil Hospital, promising to work for the country’s best interests.

Karki took over from Khadga Prasad Oli, who resigned and fled his residence, leading to the army taking control of the streets and negotiations for an interim government.

The protests, known as the protest of Gen Z, were sparked by the ban on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, which the government claimed had not complied with regulations.

Many young people were also frustrated with the privileged lifestyles of political leaders’ children while youth struggled to find employment.