Amid violent protests across Nepal, the Army on Tuesday issued a release, warning the protesters against taking “unfair advantage” of the current situation. It added that it has taken charge of security operations from 10 pm on Tuesday.
The Army also confirmed that President Ram Chandra Poudel has not resigned after reports claimed that he quit the post. This comes hours after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned following 27 hours of violent protests in Kathmandu and other regions.
In the wake of extensive damage to civilians and public property as well as looting and arson of government and personal properties, the Nepal Army asked youth not to engage in such activities.
The Army warned that if the violence continues, the security agencies will take measures to control the situation. “We also sincerely appeal to the entire nation for cooperation. Thereafter, the security situation will be reassessed and further information will be issued,” read the release.
The agitators set ablaze the Parliament, the President’s Office, PM’s residence, the Supreme Court, political party offices and homes of top leaders.
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli was forced to resign after hundreds of protesters came to his office and sought his resignation following the death of at least 19 protesters.
President Poudel urged the protesters to cooperate for a peaceful resolution of the situation.
The Army and other security agencies had earlier urged restraint following Oli’s resignation and warned the protesters against further loss of life and property. “A peaceful resolution through dialogue is the only way to restore order and stability,” a joint statement read.
