Sharma Oli resigns as Nepal’s Prime Minister after anti-corruption protests claim 21 lives

Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, has stepped down amid nationwide unrest that has left at least 21 people dead and dozens more injured.

The 73-year-old leader submitted his resignation to the president on Tuesday, saying his decision was intended to “pave the way for political dialogue and resolution of the ongoing crisis.” The Himalayan country has been gripped by violent demonstrations since Monday, triggered by the government’s short-lived attempt to ban social media platforms.

Although the ban was quickly reversed, frustration over alleged corruption, nepotism, and persistent economic stagnation has continued to fuel protests.
Clashes intensified as demonstrators attacked properties belonging to senior politicians.

Oli’s residence in Bhaktapur was set ablaze, while petrol bombs were reportedly hurled at the home of Maoist Centre chairman and former prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. The residence of Sher Bahadur Deuba, Nepali Congress president and ex-prime minister, was also targeted.

Government offices, including Singha Durbar — Nepal’s central administrative complex — were vandalised. Videos circulating on social media show parts of Oli’s home engulfed in flames.

According to officials, 19 people were killed on Monday after security forces opened fire on protesters. Amnesty International has condemned authorities for using live ammunition.

By Tuesday, the death toll had risen to 21, with Mohan Regmi, head of the Civil Service Hospital, confirming two more fatalities and at least 90 people being treated for injuries.

The protests, led largely by young Nepalese, spread through Kathmandu and other major cities, disrupting domestic flights at Tribhuvan International Airport due to security fears.

The crisis has triggered further resignations within Oli’s cabinet. Ministers for water supply, agriculture, livestock, and even the home minister have all stepped down, citing dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the unrest.

Oli, who returned to office for a fourth term in July 2024 through a coalition with the Nepali Congress, has faced mounting criticism over corruption scandals, political instability, and the country’s faltering economy.

Despite his resignation, demonstrations show little sign of easing as protesters demand sweeping reforms and an end to what they describe as entrenched impunity among Nepal’s ruling elite.