Why Nepal’s Prime Minister Resigned: What Happened, What Changes Next
1) Why did the protests erupt?
The spark was a government decision to block or restrict access to dozens of social media apps unless they formally registered with authorities. The move, framed as a compliance measure, was widely seen by young Nepalis as censorship that would mute criticism and reduce transparency. Anger blended with long-standing frustrations about corruption, nepotism, and poor job prospects. University students, creators, and small businesses—whose customers and communities live online—formed the early core of the demonstrations.
2) What exactly happened over the last 48 hours?
Protests escalated rapidly in Kathmandu and several cities. Security forces used tear gas and rubber bullets as crowds tried to march toward key government buildings. On Monday, violence peaked: independent tallies reported at least 19 deaths and hundreds injured. Despite a curfew, large crowds returned to the streets the next day, and government buildings and political offices were attacked in some areas. Facing mounting pressure, officials rolled back the social-media ban, but the reversal did not calm the streets.
Through the night and into Tuesday, resignations by senior ministers signaled a splintering cabinet. Transport was disrupted, Kathmandu’s airport experienced shutdowns, and internet restrictions fluctuated by district. The atmosphere remained tense, with protesters demanding accountability for the deaths and broader reforms.
3) Why did the PM resign?
Politically, the government lost both the street and parts of its own coalition. The immediate trigger was the deadly crackdown, which opponents blamed on leadership failures. With protests spreading despite curfew, a growing number of allies concluded the administration no longer had the authority—or the credibility—to restore calm. In this context, Prime Minister Oli announced his resignation, paving the way for a caretaker process and talks among parties to select a new leader under constitutional procedures.
4) What changes next for Nepal?
In the near term, Nepal will see negotiations to form a government that can command a majority in Parliament. A caretaker arrangement typically handles day-to-day governance until a new prime minister is appointed. Key tests ahead:
- Accountability for protest-related deaths and injuries, most likely through an independent inquiry with a public timeline and report.
- Digital policy reset to replace ad-hoc bans with transparent, rights-respecting rules for platform compliance, content moderation, and data access.
- Economic stabilizers to support small businesses and creators reliant on social platforms for sales and outreach.
- Coalition clarity inside Parliament to avoid prolonged instability that can spook investors and stall public services.
5) The bigger picture & risks
Nepal’s turmoil reflects a wider regional debate: how to regulate big platforms without chilling speech or undermining entrepreneurship. The protests carried a generational tone—often called the “Gen Z movement”—and were fueled by perceptions that political elites benefit from impunity. If the next government prioritizes clean governance, fair procurement, and transparent tech rules, it can rebuild trust. If not, the mobilization networks forged in these protests could return to the streets quickly.
Security forces face scrutiny for proportionality and crowd-control standards. International partners will watch how Nepal balances rights and order, especially with tourism, remittances, and connectivity central to livelihoods. Neighboring countries have urged restraint while preparing for potential cross-border travel disruptions.
6) Fast facts (at a glance)
- Who resigned? Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.
- Why now? Deadly crackdown on protests and political defections eroded authority.
- What about the ban? The social-media restrictions were reversed, but anger persisted.
- Casualties? At least 19 deaths reported as of publication, with many more injured.
- What to watch? Caretaker process, selection of new PM, accountability mechanisms, and a durable digital-policy framework.
Editor’s note: This explainer uses plain language and avoids graphic detail. Figures may be updated as officials and independent monitors release verified counts.
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