Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation following public outrage over the violent response to anti-corruption protests that resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals. His departure comes amid massive youth-led demonstrations fueled by accusations of widespread corruption and a controversial social media ban, which the government has since revoked.
On Monday, thousands of young protesters, many identifying as part of Generation Z, took to the streets of Kathmandu, resulting in violent clashes with police. Authorities reportedly employed tear gas and live ammunition to control the crowd, leading to nearly 200 injuries.
The protests intensified on Tuesday, with demonstrators torching the headquarters of the Nepali Congress Party and vandalizing the homes of high-profile politicians. Initial protests were sparked by a government decision to ban 26 social media platforms, which critics argued was an attempt to silence dissent.
Social media is deeply integrated into the lives of many young Nepalis, making the government's attempt to restrict access a catalyst for broader dissatisfaction with the ruling authorities.
Political unrest has spread beyond Kathmandu, with violence reported in various cities. Demonstrators are calling for accountability and structural reforms, reflecting a growing frustration with systemic corruption.
The 'NepoKids' trend has emerged as a rallying cry among the youth, highlighting an inequality where political elites live lavish lifestyles while ordinary citizens suffer from economic hardships. Amidst demands for tangible changes, analysts warn that if the government fails to engage properly, the protests may escalate further.
As the youth movement gains traction, many college students and civil society organizations are joining the cause, indicating that the protests may mark a turning point in Nepal's political landscape.
