The Nepali government’s high-level inquiry commission, investigating incidents during the Gen-Z protests in early September, has started summoning senior political leaders from the ruling government at that time. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was called to provide his statement on his involvement during the Gen-Z movement, which led to 77 deaths and property damage worth NPR 84.45 billion. Lekhak, who resigned on the same day the protests began, is scheduled to appear before the commission on Friday.
The inquiry commission has already gathered statements from most individuals linked to the events of September 8 and 9 and is now focusing on recording statements from Lekhak and former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli. Despite criticism from Oli, who has accused the commission of bias, an agreement was signed with Gen-Z groups to expand the commission’s investigative scope. The commission aims to probe human rights violations, recommend criminal accountability, and review cases of those not involved in serious crimes.
Former Prime Minister Oli has refused to cooperate with the commission, claiming bias and preconceived conclusions. Meanwhile, the government’s agreement with Gen-Z groups has broadened the commission’s mandate to investigate alleged human rights violations. As the commission extends its tenure, it continues to gather statements from officials and individuals connected to the crackdown, including the current Inspector General of Police and Nepal Army officials.
