Kathmandu: Nepal is facing one of its most turbulent political moments in recent years after the sudden resignations of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and President Ram Chandra Paudel. The developments, triggered by weeks of unrest and anti-government protests, have shifted the spotlight onto General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of the Nepal Army, who is now playing a central role in efforts to maintain order.
The streets of Kathmandu and several other cities have witnessed violent clashes, with protesters storming government residences and police struggling to contain the situation. Public anger, largely driven by allegations of corruption, social media restrictions, and governance failures, has created a power vacuum at the very top of the political establishment.
Against this backdrop, General Sigdel has urged citizens to remain calm and safeguard public property. The Army has announced that it will take over security responsibilities from late Thursday night, signaling a more assertive role in managing the escalating crisis.
Profile of a Crisis Leader
General Ashok Raj Sigdel, who hails from Nepal’s Rupandehi district, has steadily risen through the ranks since joining the Army in 1986. Over nearly four decades of service, he has commanded field units, led training institutions, and overseen sensitive military operations.
Beyond his domestic responsibilities, Sigdel has represented Nepal in multiple UN peacekeeping missions and has previously led the country’s Covid Crisis Management Center. In August 2024, he was appointed Chief of Army Staff, and just months later, India honored him with the rank of honorary General of the Indian Army-underlining Kathmandu’s close military ties with New Delhi.
Political Fallout and Uncertainty Ahead
The resignation of Nepal’s two most powerful civilian leaders has left the country in uncharted territory. Protest casualties continue to rise, with dozens reported dead and many more injured. Several cabinet members have also stepped down amid growing hostility from the public.
Analysts believe that while the Army is unlikely to seek permanent control, General Sigdel may act as the key authority until a political consensus is reached. For now, the focus remains on containing violence and opening channels for dialogue between protesters and remaining state institutions.
Nepal’s immediate path forward will depend on whether the political class can regroup and restore public trust-or whether the Army Chief will be compelled to take on a larger, temporary role in stabilizing the nation.
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