While a social media ban triggered the explosion, the protests in Nepal are a symptom of a much deeper political sickness: the systemic rot of corruption and nepotism that has infected the country’s governance. The demonstrators are not just seeking a policy change; they are demanding a cure for a disease that they believe has crippled their nation’s potential.
For years, Nepalis have watched as public funds have been allegedly misused and powerful positions have been handed to family members and loyalists, regardless of merit. This culture of impunity has created a deep well of cynicism and frustration. The recent viral social media campaign exposing the lavish lives of politicians’ children was so effective because it visually confirmed what everyone already suspected: that the elite were playing by a different set of rules.
The government’s response to this public anger has only reinforced this perception. Instead of addressing the allegations of corruption, they chose to ban the platforms where these allegations were being discussed. Then, when people protested, they were met with bullets. These actions were seen as the desperate moves of a sick system trying to protect itself from scrutiny.
The resignation of the prime minister is seen by many as merely treating a symptom, not the disease itself. The protesters’ insistence on dissolving the government is a call for major surgery. They believe that only by removing the “rotten” parts of the system can Nepal hope to build a healthier and more equitable future.
Systemic Rot: Nepal’s Protests Target a Deeper Political Sickness
