Nepal Crisis: Calm Restored but Dispute Persists Over Interim Leadership

Kathmandu,(INN): Nepal’s political turmoil appears to be easing after days of unrest, but disagreements remain over who will lead the interim government. Despite relative calm, a curfew is still in place in Kathmandu for the third consecutive day, with army patrols continuing in the streets. Authorities confirmed that 25 people have been detained so far.

The unrest, which prompted the Nepalese Army to assume control, has left at least 22 civilians dead and more than 500 injured. Army Chief Ashok Raj, in a televised address, had appealed to protesters for dialogue — a call that has since paved the way for talks between demonstrators and officials.

Race for Interim Leadership
Efforts to form an interim government have intensified. Former energy chief Kulman Ghising has emerged as the leading candidate for interim prime minister, with Justice Sushila Karki and Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah also under consideration.

Reports suggest that members of Nepal’s Gen-Z movement proposed Ghising’s name during a meeting with the army chief. On the same day, Justice Karki also held talks with General Ashok Raj.

Ghising, 54, is widely respected in Nepal as an honest and reform-minded official. He previously headed Nepal’s energy department for eight years until his early dismissal by then–Prime Minister K.P. Oli, a move that drew heavy criticism. Hailing from a modest background in Ramechhap, Ghising has openly supported the recent youth-led protests, boosting his popularity as a reform candidate.

The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue, with the nation awaiting a consensus on who will steer Nepal through its interim phase.