In this time of crisis, the responsibility is not only on the government, but also on the opposition, the media and every citizen. Spreading inflammatory content and rumors on social media should be stopped immediately.
What you should know
Nepal now stands at a sensitive point in history. Poisonous seeds of incitement in the name of politics, confusion in the name of self-defense and revenge in the name of agitation are being sown. The storm of the Gen-J movement, the sharp political backlash that followed, and the bitter accusations between the ruling and opposition parties are pushing the country to the dangerous edge of civil war.
This is not a time for personal ambition or display of heroism – it is a tough test of restraint, responsibility and foresight.
Clashes between political parties are no longer limited to ideological debates. It is oriented towards the 'gang war' of the streets. Exciting comments, unconfirmed news and 'hero-villain' storylines spreading on social media and some media are adding fuel to the fire. Self-defensive and emotional statements by leaders are enervating workers, which can spiral out of control and lead to destruction. Around 1,200 deadly weapons used by the police during the Gen-G movement have reached the hands of various dissident groups. If these weapons are used in a political conflict, the result will not be 'political change', but civilian extermination. No one can take responsibility for such a tragedy.
The role of leadership is crucial in this time of crisis. In particular, serious questions have been raised about the then Home Minister and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. It is their responsibility to voluntarily participate in the investigation process by apologizing to the public on ethical grounds. Showing the courage to surrender will reduce the likelihood of violence as well as reveal the truth. Such a move could restore public confidence and take the political culture of their party and the country in a healthy direction. Workers are also urged to exercise restraint - the path of revenge does not protect the leadership, but rather pushes the country into the abyss.
The Gen-G movement is not only the anger of the young generation, but also a deep warning against incapable and directionless leadership. If this anger is channeled into a violent path, this energy will turn destructive. The leadership should understand that gaining power is not a big thing, maintaining peace and stability in the country is a historical achievement. This movement can be used as an opportunity for dialogue and reform, but it requires honesty and accountability in leadership.
In this time of crisis, the responsibility is not only on the government, but also on the opposition, the media and every citizen. Spreading inflammatory content and rumors on social media should be stopped immediately. Political parties should stop inciting workers and choose the path of dialogue and consensus. We should all understand that it is easy to start a fire, but impossible to put it out.
The future of Nepal is in our hands. It is up to us to decide whether this country will burn with the fire of incitement or survive with restraint and cooperation.
–Santosh Simkhada, Tokyo, Japan
