Nepal Prime Minister resigns amid Gen Z protests that turned deadly after security forces opened fire on demonstrators demanding change. The youth-led movement erupted after a social-media ban and growing anger over corruption and limited economic opportunities. At least 22 people were killed, and hundreds more were injured in the clashes.
Nepal, a Himalayan nation of 30 million, has endured political turbulence for years. Since abolishing its monarchy in 2008, the country has seen more than a dozen governments. But the latest unrest, led by people aged 13 to 28, represents the most serious crisis in decades.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation in a letter posted online, citing “the extraordinary situation.” President Ramchandra Paudel urged demonstrators to pursue dialogue, saying the voices of Gen Z should be included in shaping solutions.
Social Media Ban Fuels Gen Z Protests
The crisis escalated when the government blocked 26 platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X. Officials claimed the move would reduce fake news, but rights groups condemned it as censorship.
Protesters said the ban was only part of the problem. Nepal’s youth unemployment rate reached 20.8% in 2024, leaving many young people disillusioned. With more than one-third of GDP reliant on remittances from citizens working abroad, frustration at limited prospects at home boiled over.
Online anger over “Nepo Kids”—the privileged children of politicians flaunting wealth on social media—further fueled resentment. Demonstrations spread nationwide. Protesters torched police posts, stormed the prime minister’s private residence, and set fire to offices of the Nepali Congress party. The international airport was shut down after violence disrupted operations.
Violence, Resignations, and Nepal’s Political Future
Clashes intensified outside parliament in Kathmandu. Thousands of mostly young protesters, some in school uniforms, faced rubber bullets, tear gas, and live fire. Hospitals reported more than 400 injuries.
The UN human rights office said it was “shocked” by the killings and demanded a transparent investigation. Amnesty International called the use of lethal force against unarmed protesters a grave violation of international law.
Political fallout followed quickly. The home minister resigned Monday, followed by ministers of agriculture, water, and health. After the prime minister resigned, the army appealed for calm and urged restraint.
Analysts say the resignation could pave the way for an interim government. With no party holding a clear majority, parliament may form a coalition, possibly including Gen Z representatives. Public policy expert Binay Mishra said youth groups could help shape the next leadership.
Prime Minister Oli, once seen as a political survivor, became the symbol of public frustration with corruption and nepotism. Nepal’s largest newspaper declared he could not stay “a minute longer” after the killings.
The Gen Z protests have now forced a political reset. Whether Nepal’s leaders address the grievances of young citizens—or fall back into short-lived governments—remains the central question.
