KATHMANDU: Khabarhub brings you a glimpse of major developments of the day in Nepal, including politics, business/economy, sports, entertainment, and more.
Interim government formed on consensus: President Paudel
President Ram Chandra Paudel has stated that, in the aftermath of the Gen-Z movement, it is no longer possible to form a cabinet from the House of Representatives. Speaking at a tea reception hosted by the President’s Office on the occasion of Constitution Day on Friday, President Paudel said that the current interim government was formed based on national consensus. “Let everyone understand—this step was taken through consensus because there is no longer a viable way to form a cabinet from the existing parliament,” he said. “Now, we must all focus on holding elections within six months to restore a functioning House of Representatives.”
PM Sushila Karki vows to work with firm resolve in line with public expectations
Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki has pledged that her government will work with firm resolve to meet the aspirations of the people. Addressing a special ceremony at the Army Pavilion on the occasion of Constitution Day on Friday, Karki said the government is committed to internalizing the spirit of past movements while addressing current national priorities. Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister highlighted transparency in government operations, equality before the law, eradication of corruption, good governance, and development as shared expectations across generations and key elements of the national agenda. She assured that the current government is committed to translating these priorities into action to meet public expectations.
U.S. reaffirms support for Nepal’s democratic aspirations
The United States has expressed support for the Nepali people’s aspirations for a transparent government that upholds the Constitution, emphasizing that such governance is vital for achieving a democratic resolution—especially as the country prepares for upcoming elections. In a statement on the occasion of Nepal’s Constitution Day, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, “The United States joins the people of Nepal in mourning the loss of life and extends our condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the recent protests.” He added that the people of Nepal deserve a hopeful future focused on economic growth, regional security, and inclusive prosperity.
Oli says govt didn’t ask police to fire bullets during Gen-Z protests
Former Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairperson KP Sharma Oli has claimed that conspirators were behind the violence that erupted during last week’s Gen-Z protests. Speaking out for the first time on social media after the demonstrations, Oli expressed condolences to those who lost their lives and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. “The protest was announced as a peaceful movement, as its organizers had said,” Oli wrote. “But infiltrators conspired to incite violence, leading to the tragic deaths of our youths. The government had not given any order to fire directly at demonstrators. The incident involved automatic weapons that are not used by police, and it must be thoroughly investigated.”
8,816 prisoners still at large after escaping from 27 prisons
A total of 8,816 prisoners who escaped during the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9 are still at large, according to the Department of Prison Management. During the unrest, inmates escaped from 27 prisons and nine juvenile correctional homes across the country. Chomedra Neupane, Director of the Department, said that out of 29,212 total inmates, 13,591 prisoners managed to escape. Similarly, 964 out of 1,422 juveniles fled from correctional facilities.
Kulman Ghising asks Nepalis at home and abroad to help rebuild buldings damaged in Gen-Z protest
Minister for Energy, Physical Planning, and Urban Development Kulman Ghising has announced the establishment of a special fund to finance the reconstruction of infrastructure damaged during the recent Gen-Z protests, which he estimates have caused losses exceeding Rs 200 billion. Speaking on Friday at the Transport Management Department in Minbhawan, Ghising highlighted the importance of mobilizing both local and diaspora communities in restoring the affected structures. “The damage to roads, bridges, public buildings, and other key infrastructure is unprecedented. To rebuild effectively, we need the collective effort of Nepalis at home and abroad,” he said.
Constitution Day observed
Constitution Day — Asoj 3 — was observed across the country today with various programs and events. The day marks the promulgation of the Constitution of Nepal, drafted by the people’s representatives through the Constituent Assembly in 2015. This is the seventh written constitution of Nepal, and it aims to establish socialism by ensuring citizens’ socioeconomic and cultural rights. It holds special significance as it was adopted through the Constituent Assembly, reflecting the aspirations of the Second People’s Movement, the Comprehensive Peace Accord, and the broader peace process.
Peace rally held to mark Constitution Day in Kathmandu
On the occasion of Constitution Day, a large peace rally was organized in Kathmandu on Friday morning. The rally began at Maitighar and passed through Bhadrakali, Sahid Gate, Tripureshwor, and Thapathali before returning to Maitighar, where it concluded with a gathering. The event was coordinated by the Professional Alliance for Peace and Democracy (PAPAD) and saw the participation of constitutional experts, journalists, lawyers, human rights activists, teachers, intellectuals, and citizens from various professional backgrounds.
Landslide blocks Narayangadh-Muglin road
A landslide has blocked both lanes of the Narayangadh-Muglin road section near the Tuin River in Ichchakamana Rural Municipality-6. According to Gayatri Sharma, Chief of the District Traffic Police Office in Chitwan, the landslide occurred this evening, and clearance work is currently underway. However, she noted that there is still a high risk of further landslides from the hillside above. Sharma added that while efforts to clear debris began earlier in the afternoon, the evening landslide has made the situation more challenging.
Understanding anti-constitutional activities is crucial: Speaker Ghimire
Speaker Devraj Ghimire has emphasized that safeguarding the constitution and the rule of law is only possible if the people of Nepal are able to recognize anti-constitutional activities in a timely manner. Extending his congratulations and best wishes to all Nepalis at home and abroad on the occasion of Constitution Day and National Day today, Speaker Ghimire noted that the Gen Z movement on September 8 and 9 — just ten days before the 10th anniversary of the constitution’s promulgation—has brought about a new public consciousness.
UML marks Constitution Day at party office
The CPN-UML has organized a greetings exchange program on the occasion of Constitution Day at its central office in Chyasal, Lalitpur, on Friday morning. Senior Vice Chair Ishwar Pokharel, Vice Chairs, General Secretary, and other top leaders were present at the event. However, party Chairperson KP Sharma Oli had not yet arrived at the office as of the morning program. The event was held on an open stage in the party premises as the UML office building was set on fire during the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9.
Deputy Speaker Rana calls for collective commitment to uphold Constitution
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Indira Rana, has urged all citizens and institutions to contribute to the protection, implementation, and promotion of the Constitution. Extending her best wishes on the occasion of Constitution Day, Deputy Speaker Rana expressed confidence that the Constitution’s effective implementation would help fulfill the basic needs of the people and realize national aspirations for sustainable peace, good governance, development, and prosperity.
RSP’s Tosima Karki calls for immediate reform process
Dr. Toshima Karki, a central member of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has called on the party to launch an immediate reform process to bring about meaningful transformation. Speaking on proposals presented by founding chair Rabi Lamichhane and acting chair DP Aryal, Dr. Karki stressed the need to restructure the party to better align with public expectations and democratic principles. She highlighted that while RSP was founded with the objective of safeguarding democracy, upholding the republic, and promoting governance-based government, recent events and public concerns cannot be ignored.
Suhang Nembang accepts share of responsibility, asks leaders to apologize to people
CPN-UML youth leader Suhang Nembang has called for restraint in the aftermath of the Gen-Z uprising on September 8 and 9, expressing concern over the prevailing atmosphere of anger and retaliation. Speaking candidly, the former lawmaker from Ilam stressed that the emotions of Gen-Z protesters must be respected, adding that blaming them would be like rebuking one’s own children. “I appeal once again to seniors and young comrades alike, let us abandon passion, provocation, and revenge,” he said. Nembang, son of the late UML Vice Chair Subas Nembang, went further by acknowledging his own share of responsibility in the circumstances that led to the revolt.
Prachanda says Maoist Party is made from a ‘special alloy’
CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal has described his party as being made of a ‘special alloy’, saying it is unlike any other political force in the country. Speaking at the party’s central office in Paris Danda on Friday to mark Constitution Day, Dahal dismissed narratives comparing the Maoist Centre with other parties. “The Maoists are a party forged from a different metal. Attempts to portray us as just another party are false,” he said. Addressing party cadres, he added that he was prepared to take decisive steps, even if that meant creating a political rupture. However, he stopped short of clarifying what kind of rupture or breakthrough he had in mind.
Minister Ghisings orders action on long-stalled infrastructure projects
The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, along with the Ministries of Physical Infrastructure and Transportation and Urban Development, will soon terminate contracts for long-stalled and neglected development projects, officials confirmed. Minister Kulman Ghising directed the secretaries and department heads of all three ministries to immediately prepare and submit a list of such derelict projects. The move comes as part of an effort to ensure accountability and prevent projects from remaining idle due to inactive contractors.
Unapologetic UML leaders vow to rise again
Senior Vice Chair of the Communist Party of Nepal (UML), Ishwar Pokharel, said that the party is committed to steering the country in the right direction despite current challenges. Speaking at a program organized at the UML central office on the occasion of Constitution Day on Friday, Pokharel highlighted that the party’s resolve remains unshaken even after its office was reduced to ashes during the recent Gen-Z protests. “UML has reached its current position not by drifting aimlessly like a boat on a calm pond, but by confronting challenges in every era,” Pokharel said.
Nepali Congress holds first in-person central committee meeting since Gen-Z protests
The Nepali Congress is holding a central working committee meeting at its party headquarters in Sanepa, marking the first in-person gathering since the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9. The meeting is being chaired by Vice President Purna Bahadur Khadka, with party officials and leaders in attendance. Party leaders are using the session to discuss recent developments, public livelihoods, and political matters, sharing their positions and perspectives based on the current situation.
Home Ministry establishes help desk
The Ministry of Home Affairs has set up a dedicated help desk to address and manage public concerns following the recent ‘Gen-Z’ protests and their aftermath. According to Assistant Spokesperson and Information Officer Rabindra Acharya, the help desk has been established to ensure a prompt response to citizens’ issues and suggestions related to the social disruptions caused by the movement. A statement issued by the Ministry reads: “In light of the disturbances and changes that have emerged following the Gen-Z protests, a help desk has been established at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The public can contact the desk through mobile number 9851360603.”
Nepal cricket team gears up to leave for historic T20I series against West Indies
The Nepal national cricket team was given an official farewell on Thursday as it prepares to face the West Indies in the Unity Cup T20I series, scheduled from September 27 to 30 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) organized the send-off program at the TU Cricket Ground in Kirtipur, attended by National Sports Council Member Secretary Tanka Lal Ghising, CAN Vice President Roshan Singh, and CAN Secretary Paras Khadka, among others.
Gold prices up by Rs 800
The price of gold has gone up by Rs 800 on Friday. According to the Federation of Nepal Gold and Silver Dealers’ Association, the price of gold for Friday had been set at Rs 216,000 per tola. Similarly, the price of silver has also gone up. According to the Federation, the price of silver went up by Rs 60 and is being sold at Rs 2,580 per tola.
Experts stress timely amendments and protection of Nepal’s constitution
Constitutional experts and human rights activists have said the primary responsibility today is to protect Nepal’s current constitution while updating it to remain relevant in contemporary times. Speaking on the occasion of Constitution Day, they said that full implementation of the constitution is essential for the country’s progress and the welfare of its citizens. They added that timely amendments and safeguarding of the constitution are crucial for securing the future of Nepal’s federal democratic republic. According to them, the constitution is not a barrier but a tool for national development, and protecting it is the duty of every citizen.
Lumpy skin disease confirmed in cow calves in Shuklaphanta
Lumpy skin disease has been confirmed in cow calves raised by local farmers in Sisaiya, Ward No. 9 of Shuklaphanta Municipality. After symptoms were observed in the affected calves, a team led by senior veterinarian Dr. Naresh Prasad Joshi from the Animal Disease Research Laboratory in Dhangadhi collected tissue samples. The samples were tested at the Central Animal Disease Research Laboratory using the PCR method, confirming the presence of the disease.
Butwal–Narayangadh road blocked
The Butwal-Narayangadh road section under the East-West Highway has been blocked due to landslide. The road has been obstructed due to a landslide that occurred in the Daunne area of Binayi Triveni Municipality-2 in Nawalparasi (Bardghat Susta East), according to Janak Raj Banjara, the head of the district traffic police office. He said continuous rainfall has caused landslide from above near Painsaththi Mod at Daunne, completely blocking the road. One-way traffic was operating on the Daunne section, since Wednesday morning as the road became muddy due to continuous rain and the vehicles would slip, and it has been completely blocked from this afternoon, he added.
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