Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned Tuesday following a week of violent unrest that has shaken the country. The protests, sparked by a controversial social media ban and growing public frustration over corruption, have left at least 19 people dead. The situation took a darker turn after protesters set fire to the home of a former prime minister. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, the wife of Nepal ex-leader Jhalanath Khanal, was fatally injured when demonstrators attacked their residence in the Dallu area of Kathmandu, as she resulted burnt alive, trapped inside, suffering severe burns and later dying at a hospital.
Her death added to public anger, intensifying calls for leadership accountability and reform across government institutions.
Political residences targeted as protests escalate
Protesters, many of them young citizens, continued to flood the streets despite a round-the-clock curfew imposed by the government. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces escalated, culminating in the police opening fire outside the Parliament complex on Monday. Nineteen people were confirmed dead.
In response to the growing unrest, the military airlifted top government officials from their homes. Fires were reported at multiple government buildings, including Parliament. Residences belonging to top political figures — including the president, a former prime minister, and the home minister — were also set ablaze.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak submitted his resignation shortly after the violence near Parliament. Hours later, Prime Minister Oli followed suit, stepping down during a tense emergency cabinet meeting.
The country’s main international airport suspended all operations as smoke from nearby fires blanketed the sky, leading to flight diversions and delays.
Public frustration fuels national movement
What began as a youth-led protest movement has grown into a broader call for systemic change. Many Nepalis say they are tired of a government they view as disconnected and unresponsive.
Chewan Rai, a 34-year-old policy analyst, said the death of protesters changed his perspective. He didn’t join at first, he said, but when the government started shooting young people, he couldn’t stay silent.
Sahil Singh, a 29-year-old tech entrepreneur, echoed those sentiments. This isn’t just about one prime minister, he said. People are demanding change that goes beyond politics. This is about a broken system.
Global leaders responded with concern. The United Nations has called for a full investigation into the use of deadly force against civilians. India, Nepal’s southern neighbor, expressed condolences and urged both sides to prioritize peaceful dialogue.
Earlier on Tuesday, authorities lifted the controversial ban on social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and X. The ban, which required tech companies to register under strict government oversight, was criticized by rights organizations as a serious threat to free speech.
Oli, 73, had taken office in July 2024, marking his fourth term. His resignation now adds to the country’s ongoing political instability, making him the fifth leader to step down in just five years.