Nepal’s political crisis deepened Tuesday, 9 september as Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli officially resigned amid nationwide protests against corruption, misuse of public funds, and state repression. His resignation follows the exit of five other senior leaders, marking the most significant political fallout in recent years.
The protests, largely driven by Gen Z youth, began as peaceful demonstrations but turned violent after the government attempted to suppress dissent through internet blackouts and force. So far, at least 19 people have died and over 300 have been injured.
Oli’s resignation comes under growing pressure from civil society, opposition parties, and even members of his own coalition. The government had also faced global scrutiny for its brief ban on major social media platforms, seen as an attempt to silence protesters.
Alongside the Prime Minister, the following leaders also stepped down over the past two days:
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak – Resigned after calls from the Nepali Congress to take responsibility for the violent crackdown.
Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari – Said the government’s actions resembled authoritarianism and betrayed democratic values.
Water Minister Pradeep Yadav – Resigned in solidarity with the youth, calling the crackdown unjustifiable.
Health Minister Pradip Paudel – Said his conscience wouldn’t allow him to serve a government that opened fire on peaceful protesters.
MP Asim Shah – A Rastriya Swatantra Party lawmaker who stated that staying silent would be a betrayal of the next generation.
While the internet ban has been lifted, tensions remain high nationwide. Protesters continue to demand justice for victims, an end to systemic corruption, and reform of governance.
This wave of resignations has left Nepal at a political crossroads, with both risks and opportunities for transformative change. It remains to be seen how the country’s leadership will respond to the demands of a generation refusing to be silenced.
