London’s Nepalese community will gather for a vigil at Victoria Park on Saturday night to remember the lives lost during recent anti-corruption protests in Nepal. Anil Dahal, the youth coordinator for the Nepalese Community of London, expressed concern for family members back in Nepal and highlighted the diaspora’s anxiety over the unfolding events.
The protests, which started in Kathmandu on Monday, have been dubbed the “Gen Z protests” due to the involvement of many young participants. Triggered by the temporary ban on 26 social media platforms, including major ones like Facebook and Instagram, the demonstrations escalated due to perceived deep-rooted corruption and nepotism among the political elite. The use of deadly force by the police resulted in over 50 deaths and numerous injuries, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been appointed as the interim leader, making history as the first woman to lead Nepal. The London Nepalese community awaits the response of the new government to the ongoing situation with anticipation.
Despite the violence, young Nepalese individuals remain hopeful for change and are proud of their involvement in the protests. Jagdish Singh Bist, captain of the Nepalese London Cricket Club, shared that while some of his friends participated in the protests, he worries for their safety following the clashes with the police. He sees the protests as a significant moment for his generation and expresses optimism for Nepal’s future under Karki’s leadership.
The vigil at Victoria Park aims to pay tribute to the fallen protesters and show solidarity with the ongoing movement. Dahal anticipates a large turnout from the community to honor the lives lost and support the cause.
