Nepal has been thrust into deep political crisis after Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli resigned on Monday, following weeks of relentless youth-led demonstrations that rocked the Himalayan nation.
The protests, triggered by a controversial government ban on social media platforms, swiftly morphed into a nationwide uprising against corruption, nepotism, and economic stagnation.
The ban, which shuttered over 20 platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, WhatsApp, and YouTube, initially sparked online resistance before spilling into the streets. Security forces responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition in some cases. Rights groups report at least 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries since the unrest began.
Public anger peaked when protesters stormed and set fire to government buildings, including the prime minister’s office. Though the government eventually reversed the ban, the move failed to quell the fury.
Oli’s departure was accompanied by the resignation of Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, who accepted responsibility for the deaths during the crackdown.
Central to the protest movement is Sudan Gurung, a 36-year-old humanitarian and president of the NGO Hami Nepal. Widely respected for his leadership during the 2015 earthquake relief efforts, Gurung has become a pivotal figure in mobilizing young Nepalis. Through Instagram and Discord, he launched the “Nepo Kid” campaign — a rallying cry against political dynasties and entrenched elites. The movement has drawn widespread support from celebrities, musicians, and thousands of disaffected youth.
Despite the leadership shake-up and the lifting of the ban, demonstrators continue to press for sweeping reforms, demanding transparency, accountability, and youth-driven policies to unlock economic opportunity.
Analysts caution that Nepal may face an extended period of political uncertainty as rival parties maneuver to form a new government. International observers, including India and China, are watching closely amid concerns about instability in the strategically sensitive region.
For now, Nepal stands at a historic crossroads: Oli’s resignation marks not only the fall of an embattled leader but also the emergence of a new generation determined to reshape the nation’s future.
