Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has stepped down, leading to a call for calm from the country’s security chiefs as demonstrators, predominantly young students, defy a curfew to protest government institutions and symbols of the political elite. The unrest stems from accusations of long-standing corruption and nepotism, exacerbated by a recent social media ban that was quickly reversed but failed to quell the unrest.
Protesters have blocked roads, set fire to government buildings in Kathmandu, and targeted the residences of prominent politicians. Military helicopters have been observed evacuating ministers to safety, while Nepal’s military is deploying troops to restore order and contain the violence.
Following a deadly clash on Monday where police used lethal force, resulting in the deaths of 19 protesters and over 100 injuries, the United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, has urged an inquiry into the killings and reports of excessive force by Nepal’s security forces.
The social media ban, which blocked access to 26 platforms like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp, was widely criticized as an attempt to suppress dissent. The government claimed the ban aimed to combat hate speech and misinformation, but it triggered swift public outrage, particularly among the younger population, who have long been frustrated with deep-rooted corruption, nepotism, and poor governance.
The ban came on the heels of an online movement labeling children of politicians as “nepo kids,” showcasing their opulent lifestyles funded by taxpayers’ money. This highlighted the growing disparity between the privileged few and the majority of Nepalese struggling with unemployment and limited opportunities. Many Nepalese rely on remittances from approximately two million citizens working abroad, making the brief social media ban a cause of concern for those needing to stay connected with their loved ones overseas.
The protesters, predominantly from the younger generation, are focusing on shaping a better future for Nepal. They have disavowed political affiliations and are determined to break the cycle of governance marred by corruption. The resignation of Prime Minister Oli, while a significant development, has not appeased many demonstrators who demand greater accountability and systemic change.
The unrest in Nepal echoes similar student-led movements in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in recent years, where mass protests led to political upheaval and demanded accountability from entrenched leaders. The ongoing turmoil underscores deep-seated economic grievances and a growing discontent with systemic corruption and mismanagement in these countries.