Political Instability grips Nepal. The Himalayan nation is facing its worst political crisis in decades after Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli resigned amidst widespread anti-corruption protests that escalated dramatically, resulting in the parliament building being set ablaze. The unrest, largely fueled by the country’s “Gen Z” population, has caused multiple deaths and widespread destruction, plunging the nation into uncertainty.
Oli’s Resignation and Escalating Unrest
The crisis unfolded rapidly, beginning on Monday, September 8, 2025, with protests triggered by the government’s ban on 26 social media applications, including widely used platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X. According to reporting by Al Jazeera, this ban was perceived by many young Nepalis as a direct attack on freedom of expression and a blatant attempt to suppress dissent. The protests quickly morphed into a broader movement against government corruption and nepotism, issues that have long simmered beneath the surface of Nepali politics.
The situation deteriorated sharply as security forces responded to the protests with force. Multiple sources, including The Guardian and TIME, reported that police used live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas against demonstrators. These clashes resulted in the deaths of at least 19 protesters on Monday alone, with hundreds more injured. Despite the government’s subsequent decision to lift the social media ban and impose an indefinite curfew, the protests only intensified. On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, demonstrators defied the curfew, stormed the federal parliament building in Kathmandu, and set it ablaze, marking a significant escalation of the crisis. Fires also engulfed the homes and offices of prominent politicians, including the former Prime Minister’s residence, the Supreme Court, and the office of the Nepali Congress, the country’s largest party, according to NDTV.
Prime Minister Oli announced his resignation on Tuesday, stating his decision was “to facilitate a solution to the problem and to help resolve it politically,” as reported by The Washington Post. President Ramchandra Paudel accepted the resignation and has called for national unity, but the situation remains highly volatile.
Key Players in Nepal’s Political Instability
Former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli
Oli’s resignation is a pivotal moment in the crisis. His decision to step down came amidst mounting pressure from the anti-corruption protests and the widespread condemnation of the government’s handling of the situation. While his resignation was framed as an attempt to de-escalate the crisis, it has also created a power vacuum and further political uncertainty, according to CBC News.
President Ramchandra Paudel
As the head of state, President Paudel is now tasked with navigating the political fallout from Oli’s resignation. He has called for national unity and is responsible for initiating the process of selecting a new Prime Minister. His ability to foster dialogue and mediate between the various political factions will be crucial in determining the future stability of Nepal.
“Gen Z” Anti-Corruption Protesters
The driving force behind the unrest is the youth movement, often referred to as “Gen Z” protesters. These young Nepalis are motivated by deep-seated frustration over government corruption, nepotism, and a lack of economic opportunity. They view the political elite as self-serving and out of touch with the needs of ordinary citizens. Their determination to demand change, even in the face of violent repression, has been a defining feature of the crisis.
Security Forces
The actions of the police and the Nepali army have been a source of considerable controversy. The use of live ammunition and other aggressive tactics against protesters has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and international bodies. The United Nations has urged calm and restraint, calling on security forces to respect the rights of peaceful demonstrators, according to UN News.
Underlying Causes of the Crisis
While the social media ban served as the immediate trigger for the protests, the underlying causes of the crisis are far more complex. According to an analysis by Firstpost’s Vantage with Palki Sharma on YouTube, the protests reflect deeper, long-standing public discontent over pervasive corruption, nepotism, and a political elite perceived as self-serving and out of touch. High youth unemployment, with many young Nepalis leaving the country for work, has further fueled the anger, as they observe the luxurious lifestyles of “nepo kids” – the children of political leaders.
The Straits Times highlights that this deep-seated resentment towards the perceived corruption and elitism within the government has been brewing for years. The social media ban simply acted as the catalyst that brought these frustrations to a head.
Impact and Regional Implications
The ongoing crisis is having a significant impact on Nepal. The closure of Kathmandu international airport has disrupted travel and commerce. The deployment of the army underscores the severity of the situation. The violence has resulted in a significant death toll and numerous injuries, raising concerns about human rights and the disproportionate use of force by security forces. Globalnews.ca reports that the situation remains highly volatile, with no clear path to de-escalation without further dialogue between the government and protest leaders.
The crisis also has regional implications. India has tightened security along its border with Nepal, according to ITV News, reflecting concerns about the potential for spillover effects. The instability in Nepal could also have broader implications for regional security and cooperation.
Conclusion
The political turmoil in Nepal, ignited by anti-corruption protests and the subsequent resignation of Prime Minister Oli, represents a critical juncture for the nation. The underlying causes of the crisis – pervasive corruption, nepotism, and economic inequality – must be addressed to achieve lasting stability. The path forward requires meaningful dialogue between the government and protest leaders, as well as a commitment to reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. The international community, including the United Nations, must continue to urge restraint and support efforts to find a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the crisis.
