Microfinance Victims Continue Hunger Strike in Kathmandu

Kathmandu. The collective hunger strike started by microfinance victims at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu, with various five-point demands, continued on Friday. The hunger strike was initiated on Tuesday under the leadership of the 'Struggle Committee Against Microfinance and Financial Exploitation'. The protesting side has put forward various demands to the government, calling for an end to financial exploitation and the guarantee of social justice. They have prioritized the demand for the immediate implementation of the report, including the three-point disagreements of microfinance victims, in accordance with the mandamus of the Supreme Court. The Struggle Committee's demand letter mentions the abolition of the existing special financial act and the implementation of a financial system based on the Civil Code. Furthermore, demands have been made for the provision of interest-free loans, including interest exemption, for the poor, laborers, landless, and farmers, and to ensure employment and fair wages based on the needs and capabilities of citizens. The protestors have also presented a long-term demand to end private banks and financial institutions and establish a socialist economy in the country. The Struggle Committee has stated that they will continue the hunger strike and protest programs until their demands are met.