Nepal Prime Minister Resigns Amid Deadly Youth Protests

TDT | Kathmandu

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Nepal’s veteran Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday following deadly youth protests that left at least 19 people dead, marking one of the country’s deadliest crackdowns in years.

The protests began on Monday after the government imposed a ban on social media and faced growing criticism over corruption. Even after the social media platforms were restored, demonstrations continued.

On Tuesday, protesters attacked and set fire to Oli’s residence, according to Nepali media. The 73-year-old Communist Party leader announced his resignation, saying it was a step toward a political solution and resolving ongoing problems.

“I have resigned from the post of prime minister with effect from today... in order to take further steps towards a political solution and resolution of the problems,” Oli said.

Police reported that several groups ignored the curfew, with protests spreading across multiple areas. Some demonstrators targeted politicians’ properties and government buildings.

Oli had begun his fourth term last year after forming a coalition with the centre-left Nepali Congress. His resignation came after three other ministers stepped down, despite the government lifting the social media ban that had sparked much of the unrest.

The ban had intensified frustration among young people, who make up nearly 43 percent of Nepal’s population. High unemployment and a low GDP per capita have added to public discontent.