“Explore the Gen Z uprising in Nepal—sparked by a social media ban—and how mass protests over corruption, fierce clashes, and 19 deaths forced PM Oli to resign and ignited a nationwide political crisis.”
Nepal’s Prime Minister Resigns Amid Gen Z Anti-Corruption Protests: What You Need to Know
Nepal is engulfed in a political crisis after Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli stepped down, driven out by massive Gen Z–led protests that began over a controversial ban on social media and quickly escalated into a broader anti-corruption movement.
What Sparked the Protests?
The unrest began when the government blocked 26 major social media platforms—from Facebook to YouTube—for failing to register under new regulations. The backlash was intense, especially among younger citizens, who feared censorship and contempt for free expression.
Rise of the ‘Gen Z Protests’
Driven by students and young activists, the demonstrations—dubbed the “Gen Z protests”—combined demands for transparency, anti-corruption, and digital freedom. Protesters stormed government buildings, set fire to leadership residences, and clashed violently with police across Kathmandu and other urban centers.
A Violent Turn
Security forces responded with rubber bullets, tear gas, and live ammunition. The crackdown left at least 19 protesters dead, and hundreds injured, deepening the national crisis.
Government Response
- The social media ban was lifted just hours before the resignation, as the government attempted to calm public outrage.
- An indefinite curfew was imposed in Kathmandu and parts of Lalitpur.
- The Home Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, resigned soon after taking moral responsibility for the bloodshed.
PM Oli Resigns
Bowled over by mounting public pressure and widespread anger, PM Oli announced his resignation on September 9, 2025, saying he stepped down to help resolve the crisis constitutionally.
Broader Implications
- The president also stepped down, acknowledging the political collapse.
- The army took control of key areas, including Tribhuvan International Airport.
- A caretaker government will now take charge while political parties work toward forming a new administration.
