Nepal’s ex-Home Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, refuted claims of instructing the use of force against protesters during the Gen-Z protests in September. The movement resulted in 77 deaths and over NPR 84 billion in property damage.
Lekhak, who held office during the protests, faces allegations of excessive force authorization. An inquiry commission, under the current government, is probing the events of September 8 and 9. Statements from security heads and officials have been recorded.
The commission summoned Lekhak for testimony, emphasizing no written or verbal orders were issued by him to use force. Lekhak stressed that he had urged security agencies to prevent casualties and chaos during the protests. He blamed infiltrators for turning the peaceful movement violent.
Several state institutions were vandalized during the protests, leading to Lekhak alleging a deliberate conspiracy against the nation. Former Prime Minister Oli, also linked to the events, has refused to testify, citing bias concerns.
