Nepal’s Prime Minister Resigns Amid Escalating Anti-Corruption Protests

Protests in Nepal have reached a critical point, resulting in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli amid escalating violence and unrest. The protests began after the government announced a ban on 26 social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, for failing to meet a registration deadline. After two days of intense demonstrations, Mr. Oli stepped down, citing the ongoing crisis in the capital, Kathmandu.

On September 8, 2023, anti-corruption demonstrators clashed with police in response to an indefinite curfew imposed by the government. These clashes have resulted in at least three deaths on Tuesday, bringing the total to 22 fatalities since protests began. The capital’s Parliament building and several residences of high-ranking officials have been targeted, highlighting the growing anger towards the ruling authorities.

In a statement following his resignation, Mr. Oli emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue, stating, “We have to resort to peaceful dialogue to find solutions to any problem.” This call for dialogue came after he lifted the controversial social media ban and announced an all-party meeting. Despite these measures, public dissatisfaction remains high, with demonstrators vowing to continue their protests.

Witnesses reported that political figures have fled to safety via military helicopters as protesters set fire to their homes. Mr. Oli’s residence in Balkot, east of Kathmandu, was also targeted, illustrating the extent of public outrage. Many participants in the protests identify as part of Gen Z, using the term as a rallying cry against perceived government corruption and mismanagement.

Protesters have expressed their demands with slogans such as “Stop the ban on social media” and “Stop corruption, not social media.” Demonstrator Robin Sreshtha stated, “We are still standing here for our future […] We want this country corruption-free so that everyone can easily access education, hospitals, [and] medical facilities.”

The violence has taken a toll on public health services, with Dipak Poudel, the director of the Civil Service Hospital, reporting that 209 individuals were admitted for treatment during Tuesday’s protests. According to Dr. Badri Rijal from Kathmandu’s national trauma centre, many of the injured are in serious condition, having suffered gunshot wounds to the head and chest.

In response to the unrest, flights at Tribhuvan International Airport, located near the city center, were canceled on Tuesday morning. Subsequently, the civil aviation authority announced the complete closure of the airport, further complicating the situation in Kathmandu.

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, with human rights organizations urging the Nepalese government to address the grievances of its citizens and ensure their safety. The unfolding protests signal a significant moment in Nepal’s political landscape, as citizens demand accountability and transparency from their leaders.