Nepal microfinance borrowers end protest after striking 14-point deal with government

Microfinance borrowers in Nepal have returned to their home districts after a successful 14-point agreement was reached with the government, ending their sit-in protest. The demonstration, which had been ongoing outside the National Human Rights Commission office in Pulchowk, Lalitpur, concluded following intensive talks between government officials and borrower representatives on Saturday.

Following the agreement, the protesters called off their demonstration and boarded Sajha Yatayat buses arranged by the government on Sunday morning. The buses departed for various districts, carrying 323 borrowers who had participated in the protest. Officials from multiple government bodies were present to see the borrowers off, signifying the government's commitment to resolving the issue.

The borrowers hailed from districts including Jhapa, Morang, Sarlahi, Mahottari, Sindhuli, Bara, Parsa, and Nawalparasi. The resolution of the protest marks a significant step towards addressing the concerns of microfinance borrowers in the country. The details of the 14-point agreement were not immediately available, but the successful negotiation indicates a willingness from both sides to find a mutually agreeable solution.