Kathmandu, September 9, 2025 — In a dramatic turn of events, Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has officially resigned following two days of violent, youth-led protests that have shaken the Himalayan nation to its core. The unrest, sparked by a controversial social media ban, quickly escalated into a nationwide movement demanding accountability, transparency, and an end to entrenched corruption.
What Triggered the Crisis?
On September 4, the Oli government imposed a sweeping ban on 26 major social media platforms—including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X—citing non-compliance with new registration laws. The move was widely condemned as authoritarian and out of touch with Nepal’s digitally native youth.
The ban ignited fury among Gen Z activists, who took to the streets in Kathmandu and other cities, chanting slogans like:
- “KP Chor, Desh Chhod” (KP thief, leave the country)
- “Stop Corruption, Not Social Media”
- “No More Nepo Babies”
Escalation and Violence
Despite curfews and police crackdowns, protests intensified. On September 8:
- At least 19 people were killed and over 300 injured in clashes with security forces
- Protesters stormed Parliament and breached the Singha Durbar government complex
- PM Oli’s private residence in Balkot was set ablaze
- Homes of other leaders, including former PMs Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Sher Bahadur Deuba, were attacked
The government lifted the social media ban late Monday, but the damage was done. Public outrage had reached a boiling point.
Oli’s Resignation
In a letter to President Ramchandra Paudel, Oli cited “extraordinary circumstances” and the need for a constitutional resolution:
“Considering the extraordinary situation prevailing in the country and in order to facilitate further efforts toward a constitutional political solution, I hereby resign from the office of Prime Minister, effective immediately.”
His resignation followed mounting pressure from coalition partners, opposition leaders, and even the Nepal Army Chief, who reportedly urged Oli to step down to prevent military intervention.
Gen Z’s Role and Demands
This uprising marks a watershed moment in Nepal’s political history. Unlike previous movements, this one is:
- Youth-led, organized via Reddit, Instagram, and TikTok
- Focused on systemic corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation
- Demanding reforms such as:
- A retirement age for politicians
- Asset transparency for public officials
- Freedom of expression and digital rights
What’s Next for Nepal?
With Oli’s resignation, Nepal faces a leadership vacuum. An all-party meeting is expected to determine the next steps, including:
- Formation of a national unity government
- Launch of an independent anti-corruption commission
- Possible early elections amid collapsing parliamentary support
Meanwhile, curfews remain in effect across Kathmandu, Sarlahi, and Rautahat districts. Schools and businesses are shuttered, and Tribhuvan International Airport was temporarily closed due to unrest.
Global Reactions
International bodies including the UN Human Rights Office have called for restraint and a probe into the killings. Analysts warn that Nepal’s crisis mirrors recent youth-led uprisings in Bangladesh, driven by digital frustration and economic inequality.
