Kathmandu: Nepal plunged deeper into political turmoil today as Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned following days of violent protests led by the youth-driven “Gen Z” movement. Demonstrations over a controversial social media ban and mounting anger against corruption have left at least 19 dead and more than 300 injured.
Crowds of protesters stormed Parliament in Kathmandu, set tyres ablaze, and torched the homes of political leaders. In Bhaktapur, Oli’s private residence was set on fire while he remained at the official Baluwatar residence. Demonstrators also attacked the home of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and pelted stones at Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung’s house.
The unrest erupted on Monday after the government banned 26 social media platforms. Youth activists denounced the move as a ploy to shield corrupt leaders, shouting slogans such as “Oli thief, leave the country” and “Act against corrupt politicians.” Even after the government revoked the ban on Tuesday, the protests escalated. Curfew orders were imposed across Kathmandu Valley, and domestic flights were suspended. Tribhuvan International Airport remains shut.
In his resignation message, Oli said he was stepping down to “pave the way for a political solution.” President Ram Chandra Paudel accepted his resignation, clearing the path for a new government. Reports suggest Oli may seek asylum in Dubai, while several ministers were airlifted by helicopter to the airport before it was closed.
As the crisis spread, Agriculture Minister Ram Nath Adhikari, Health Minister Pradeep Paudel, Sports Minister Tejulal Chaudhary, and other cabinet members resigned, citing moral responsibility. Protesters also targeted the private residences of President Paudel and senior leader Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Clashes between demonstrators and security forces erupted in Kalanki, Baneshwor, Kalimati, Tahachal, and several parts of Lalitpur, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets as protesters hurled stones. In Sunakothi, chants of “Don’t kill students” echoed as security forces struggled to contain the crowds.
The youth-led movement has now widened its focus beyond the social media ban, channeling public anger toward corruption, nepotism, and what protesters call “nepo kids” in politics. Many demonstrators have demanded that independent mayor Balendra Shah be appointed interim prime minister.
With Oli’s resignation and the government in disarray, Nepal faces the prospect of early elections amid one of the most intense youth uprisings in its modern history.
