In brief
In a tragic escalation, pro-monarchist protests in Nepal lead to at least two deaths and numerous injuries, prompting a government-imposed curfew and army deployment to restore order.
At least two people lost their lives and dozens were injured in Kathmandu, Nepal, when pro-monarchist protests erupted into violent clashes with security forces on Friday. Protesters, advocating for the return of the monarchy led by the last king, Gyanendra Shah, demanded a constitutional monarchy that aligns with Nepal's Hindu identity within a parliamentary democracy. The deceased were identified as a demonstrator killed by gunfire and a television journalist who died amidst a fire sparked by the protesters at a building where he was filming. The violent altercations left around 30 civilians and 40 police officers injured, according to police spokesperson Dinesh Kumar Acharya. In response to the escalating conflict, Nepal's government enacted a curfew in key areas of the capital and deployed the military to assist in maintaining public order. The pro-monarchist movement has gained traction recently, with supporters accusing the existing political parties, including those of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, of corruption and inefficacy in addressing the ongoing poverty and political instability facing the nation.
