Kathmandu: Lawmaker Asim Shah has resigned from the House of Representatives, citing the government’s violent suppression of the ongoing Gen Z protests.
In a statement issued Tuesday, Shah announced his resignation effective immediately, saying he could not remain in Parliament while the government resorted to “inhuman measures” such as opening fire on peaceful demonstrators. At least 19 people were killed and over 400 injured during Monday’s crackdown, which has drawn widespread condemnation.
“I repeatedly warned in Parliament that street uprisings were inevitable if the voices of youth were ignored, but those in power never listened,” Shah said. He accused the government of prioritizing the protection of Parliament buildings over the lives of young protesters.
Shah described remaining silent in Parliament as tantamount to endorsing the government’s actions. “Parliament is not just a position, it is a platform to represent citizens’ voices. When that voice is suppressed, I can no longer remain part of such an institution,” he said.
Pledging solidarity with the youth-led protests, Shah declared that he would now “join the streets to fight alongside the Gen Z generation, citizens, and truth.”