Let Impunity End in Nepal

Nepal’s political history has been shaped by repeated movements, changes, and the hopes of its people. The political revolution of 2007 BS ended the Rana rule and, for the first time, allowed Nepalese to speak freely, organize themselves, and take part in governance. In 2018 BS, the elected government was removed and the party-less Panchayat system was introduced. Later, the student movement of 2036 BS renewed public demands for multiparty democracy and political reform.

The People’s Movement of 2046 BS abolished the Panchayat system and established multiparty democracy under a constitutional monarchy. Despite public sacrifice and expectations for rule of law and accountability, politics gradually shifted toward power struggles and bargaining, fostering a culture of impunity.

The Maoist armed conflict that began in 2052 BS brought years of violence, fear, and instability. More than 17,000 people lost their lives, and infrastructure and private property worth billions of rupees were destroyed. Thousands of families still live with deep pain and psychological trauma.

The People’s Movement of 2062–63 BS again changed the course of the nation. The monarchy was abolished and Nepal became a republic. There was strong hope that a new, inclusive constitution would ensure peace, justice, and equality for all communities.

Although the Comprehensive Peace Accord of 2063 BS officially ended the conflict, the promised processes of truth, reconciliation, and justice did not move forward properly. Many people responsible for killings, disappearances, torture, and other serious human rights abuses remained protected by political power, while victims continued to wait for justice. This shows how impunity has gradually become embedded within the system.

In Nepal, impunity is no longer limited to crimes committed during the conflict period. Over time, it has become a common feature of how the state is run. During the past two decades, corruption has increased sharply. Public money and resources have been misused, yet those responsible have mostly avoided punishment. Even constitutional bodies, which are meant to monitor the government and hold powerful people accountable, have increasingly faced political interference.

The democratic idea that the law should be equal for everyone has gradually weakened. People in power often act as if they are above the law. Ordinary citizens are punished for small mistakes, while those involved in large-scale corruption and serious crimes frequently go unpunished.

Political parties often appear to stand with the people during popular movements, but once they gain power, they repeatedly fail to remain accountable. This has become a major reason for public frustration and anger.

Under the excuse that holding perpetrators accountable would threaten the peace process, political parties have delayed transitional justice and protected individuals involved in serious crimes. Many people responsible for grave offenses during the conflict and various movements now occupy powerful political positions—clear signs of growing impunity. If the reports of the Janardan Mallik Commission and the Krishna Rayamajhi Commission had been implemented honestly and on time, Nepal’s political situation could be very different today, and the recent large-scale Gen-Z movement might not have emerged in the way it did.

The Gen-Z movement that took place on Bhadra 23–24, 2082 BS should not be seen as a sudden outburst or a short-lived protest. It was the result of many years of frustration caused by unemployment, unequal opportunities, and a political system marked by impunity. Students, young people, and socially aware citizens came together, using both street protests and digital platforms, which made the movement strong and influential.

The Gen-Z message was clear: they reject the old political ways and demand genuine change. Their focus is not merely on new leaders or parties, but on enhancing the quality of governance. They call for transparency, accountability, equal opportunities in education and employment, an end to corruption, and decisive action against impunity.

Even when serious allegations emerged that 76 youths were killed while suppressing the anti-corruption Gen-Z campaign, the then head of government, ruling parties, and those in power were unwilling to accept responsibility. This reinforced among young people the belief that politics is merely a struggle for power and power-sharing, deepening their frustration and distrust.

Political parties must recognize that ignoring—or deliberately refusing to understand—the public demand for change can once again trigger intense and widespread social unrest. The Gen-Z movement is not merely an expression of anger; it is a clear manifestation of democratic consciousness. Young people are demanding good governance, accountability, equal opportunities, and a decisive end to impunity.

If political parties truly listen to this message from Gen-Z and the wider public and take meaningful corrective actions, it could open the door to lasting reforms and the genuine strengthening of democratic values. The Gen-Z movement should be seen not as a temporary protest, but as an opportunity for long-term change and the elimination of impunity.

In this context, properly implementing the recommendations of the Gauri Bahadur Karki Commission—formed to conduct a judicial investigation into the Gen-Z movement—along with the reforms outlined in the recent 10-point agreement between the interim government and Gen-Z, could offer an opportunity to end impunity in Nepal.

Elections are not just a way to measure public opinion; they are a chance to guide democracy in the right direction. The upcoming election on Falgun 21 is a critical moment for Nepal. At a time of growing public distrust and dissatisfaction, the country must choose paths based on consensus, inclusiveness, and the constitution—not exclusion or revenge. Political polarization can be prevented only through fair competition, genuine justice, and collaborative politics.

If new political parties rise above personal interests and unite with a shared vision, they can better meet the expectations of the youth. In this context, the emerging alliance among the Rastriya Swatantra Party, Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah, and Ujyalo Nepal Party patron Kulman Ghising can be seen as a positive and hopeful development. The unity of these groups—long active as independent and alternative forces—has been widely viewed as a meaningful moment in Nepal’s contemporary political landscape.

In an era where Nepal’s politics suffers from a lack of integrity, responsibility, and accountability, and where impunity is widespread, people are increasingly comparing today’s political behaviour with King Gyanendra’s peaceful abdication of the throne in 2065 BS, when he returned ‘the people’s trust back to the people’ following the 2062–63 People’s Movement.

The current situation in Bangladesh serves as a warning for Nepal. There, prolonged abuse of power, suppression of opposition, weak institutions, and persistent impunity have led to deep political and social crises. Bangladesh shows clearly that when public anger erupts, the state machinery can become powerless. If Nepal follows a similar path, its democratic values could be seriously weakened.

Nepal must reject politics based on exclusion and revenge. It needs clean and fair elections with the participation of all major parties, justice processes that are lawful and focused on victims, continuous dialogue between the government and the Election Commission, and balanced diplomacy with India, China, and Western countries. All these measures are essential to safeguard Nepal’s democracy.

Ending impunity in Nepal is not merely a slogan but a national necessity. It demands strong political will, an independent judiciary, an active civil society, and informed citizen participation. The sacrifices of past movements gain meaning only when the law applies equally to all and every offender is held accountable. Learning from history, Nepal must take a firm stand against impunity from today onward, for true democracy rests on justice, accountability, and ethical politics—a shared responsibility of both the state and its citizens.

The author, Baral, writes on education, climate and the environment, information technology, and contemporary issues.