Nepal on Wednesday observed a national day of mourning in honour of the 73 people who lost their lives during a wave of anti-corruption protests that swept the country last week.
According to the AFP, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that flags were flown at half-mast across the nation “in honour of those who lost their lives during the protests.”
The demonstrations, which began on September 8 following a government ban on social media, quickly grew into a nationwide movement against corruption and economic hardship.
At least 19 people were killed on the first day as police cracked down on protesters, sparking further anger and violent confrontations.
Government offices, hotels, and other public buildings were set ablaze as youths, many rallying under the “Gen Z” banner, demanded sweeping reforms.
“The changes we are witnessing today would not be possible without the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives during the protests,” activist group Hami Nepal posted on social media.
The unrest, described as the worst since Nepal’s civil war ended in 2008, forced the resignation of the government. An interim administration led by 73-year-old former chief justice, Sushila Karki, has now been tasked with restoring order and preparing the country for elections in six months.
Karki has declared those killed in the protests as “martyrs,” promising state honours during their cremations. “We cannot let their sacrifices be in vain. The government is committed to building a corruption-free future,” she said in her first national address.
Residents say the mourning period has brought a sense of unity amid the grief. “Everyone is sad about what happened, the loss of lives — all young people like us,” said shopkeeper Pooja Shrestha, 22. “Things have improved now, and we hope the new government will bring the changes we need.”
Meanwhile, police spokesman Binod Kharel confirmed that the death toll had risen to 73, including officers and prisoners who died during a mass jailbreak. He revealed that about 13,500 prisoners had escaped from two dozen jails during the chaos, but “so far, about 5,000 prisoners have either been recaptured or returned voluntarily.”
According to World Bank data, one in five Nepali youths aged 15 to 24 remain unemployed, with the country’s GDP per capita standing at just $1,447 — an economic backdrop that fuelled the anger behind the protests.
