Nepal, a small Himalayan nation sandwiched between India and China, continues to struggle with political instability and external pressures. Recent events have intensified these challenges, as the government’s decision to block social media platforms sparked widespread protests, underscoring the power of digital resistance and mass demonstrations.
The article traces Nepal’s political evolution from the reigns of kings like Tribhuvan and Mahendra to the tragic events of 2001, including the assassination of King Birendra and the subsequent establishment of a republic. Despite attempts at democratization, the country remains fragmented, with competing political factions and a history of external influence shaping its governance.
The recent ban on social networks exemplifies how digital connectivity has become a critical issue in modern Nepalese politics, highlighting the enduring power of the street over traditional forms of governance. The monarchy’s decline, followed by the rise of various political movements, has left Nepal’s political system in a state of perpetual flux, with street demonstrations frequently determining the fate of governments.
Today, the country’s three largest parties, all named the Communist Party of Nepal, represent different factions, further complicating governance. Political coalitions form and collapse rapidly, leading to frequent cabinet changes and a lack of stability. This situation has persisted despite Nepal’s attempts at establishing a functional democracy, illustrating the challenges of creating enduring political institutions in a region constantly influenced by larger powers.
While the recent protests have subsided, the deeper pattern remains unchanged. Nepal continues to be a nation where politics is shaped less by parliament or palace than by the crowd in Kathmandu’s squares. This reflects a broader trend where mass mobilization plays a central role in the country’s political and social movements, making the street the true arena of sovereignty over traditional political structures.