Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his cabinet resigned on Tuesday after massive protests and violent demonstration in the capital city over corruption charges and his decision to block social media platforms.
His exit came after hundreds of demonstrators stormed his office.
In his resignation letter to President Ramchandra Paudel, Oli acknowledged the extraordinary circumstances facing the country and stressed the need for a constitutional political resolution.
The letter stated: “I was appointed Prime Minister on Asadh 31, 2071 BS, under Article 76(2) of the Constitution of Nepal. Considering the extraordinary situation prevailing in the country, and to facilitate further efforts toward a constitutional political solution and problem resolution, I hereby resign from the office of Prime Minister, effective immediately, under Article 77(1)a of the Constitution.”
The Nepal government lifted its social media ban late Monday night after violent clashes, but protests quickly resumed in Kathmandu on Tuesday, with demonstrators accusing leaders of corruption.
According to The Himalayan Times, large crowds of mostly Gen Z protesters broke through the western gate of Singha Durbar, the main government complex that houses several ministries and offices.
Witnesses said the protesters forced their way past security as anger over corruption and the deaths of 19 people in earlier clashes grew.
Authorities imposed curfews in key areas of Kathmandu after Monday’s violence, but protesters still torched Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s private residence in Balkot, ruling party offices, and several buildings in Janakpur. The central office of the Nepali Congress in Sanepa was also vandalized, along with the homes of senior leaders like Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba and CPN-UML leaders.
Protesters threw stones, smashed windows, and set fire to political offices. Police used tear gas to try to control the crowds, though reports from The Himalayan Times said there were also gunshots and people with bullet injuries, despite official claims that live ammunition was not authorized.
The situation grew so tense that Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu was shut down completely, with the Nepali Army deployed to secure the area.
According to The Kathmandu Post, protesters also attacked and burned the house of Communication and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung, stoned the residence of Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Paudel, and targeted the homes of Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Biswo Paudel and former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.
At least 19 people have died and more than 200 have been injured in these Gen Z-led protests, which began after the government’s sudden decision to block social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. Even though the ban was lifted, anger on the streets has only grown stronger.
At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and...
Read MoreAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.
Read Less
Start a Conversation
Post comment