Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Oli stepped down on Monday, officials confirmed, bowing to mounting pressure following one of the country’s most violent crackdowns in years. The unrest, which claimed the lives of at least 19 people, has reignited demonstrations across the nation.
Oli’s resignation is expected to trigger heated negotiations among political parties as they move quickly to assemble a new administration.
The move follows a tide of protests among youths. On Tuesday, protesters braved a curfew imposed by the government, back to the streets to protest against corruption, unemployment, and the recent crackdown on social media websites. The access to Facebook, YouTube, and X was temporarily blocked before the decision was reversed.
Clashes in the capital Kathmandu on Monday killed 17 people, police said, and two others were killed in Sunsari district. Hundreds of others were injured, more than 100 of them police officers. Amnesty International said live bullets had been fired into the crowds, and the United Nations has demanded a full and open inquiry.
In spite of concessions by the government—such as ending the social media blockade and suggesting all-party conferences—public anger has not weakened. Protesters vandalized state properties and politicians' premises, blaming the security forces for conducting killings.
"Almost 20 individuals were killed by the state — that indicates the extent of police brutality," said 23-year-old student Yujan Rajbhandari, who had participated in Monday's protests.
With individuals aged 15 to 40 comprising approximately 43 percent of Nepal's population, observers say the movement represents a generational revolt against deep-seated corruption, inequality, and opportunities. As the Kathmandu Post put it in an editorial, "This isn't just about social media — it's about trust, corruption, and a generation that refuses to stay silent.
Oli, 73, had committed on Tuesday to personally chair negotiations among all political parties to achieve a "meaningful conclusion" to the violence. His own resignation, however, highlights the profound political instability now consuming the Himalayan nation.
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