Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli Resigns Amid Intensifying Protests and Violence

In a dramatic turn of events, Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday following days of violent protests sparked by the government’s now-lifted ban on social media platforms. Despite the reversal, demonstrations entered their second day, leaving two more people dead and raising the total death toll to 22, with over 300 injured.

Confirming the resignation, Oli’s aide Prakash Silwal stated that the Prime Minister stepped down “to facilitate a political solution to the crisis.” In his resignation letter, Oli emphasized the need for peace and dialogue, urging demonstrators to avoid violence. He had earlier called for an all-party meeting to address the escalating unrest.

According to sources, Oli had sought military assistance from Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel to control the situation and ensure his safety. The Army Chief, however, advised him to resign, saying stability could only be restored if he relinquished power.

Unrest across Kathmandu intensified, with protesters setting fire to the Parliament building, vandalizing ministerial residences, and targeting government offices. Security forces were deployed across the capital, while multiple helicopters evacuated ministers and officials from key government quarters to Tribhuvan International Airport, which was later shut down amid fears of disruption from protesters.

As visuals of thick smoke rising from Nepal’s Parliament circulated online, the crisis deepened. The resignation marks a critical juncture in Nepal’s political landscape, with the public demanding accountability and systemic change in the wake of unprecedented Gen Z-led demonstrations.