Kathmandu, September 9, 2025 — Nepal is witnessing one of its most volatile political crises in recent years, as nationwide protests led by Gen Z demonstrators intensify against alleged government corruption and authoritarian policies. In a dramatic escalation, protesters set fire to Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s private residence in Balkot, Bhaktapur, on Tuesday morning.
The unrest, which began as a response to the government’s controversial ban on 26 social media platforms—including Facebook and X—has evolved into a broader anti-corruption movement. Demonstrators, many of them students and young professionals, have accused senior leaders of misusing public funds and suppressing dissent. The social media ban, briefly lifted late Monday, was seen as an attempt to stifle whistleblowing and digital activism.
Eyewitnesses reported that protesters gathered outside PM Oli’s residence demanding accountability for the deaths of 19 civilians during Monday’s police crackdown. The crowd reportedly pelted stones before setting parts of the property ablaze. Security forces responded with tear gas, and reports of gunfire and injuries have emerged, though official confirmation remains pending.
The violence has spread across Kathmandu and Lalitpur, with demonstrators vandalizing the homes of several political figures:
- Former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba’s residence in Budhanilkantha was attacked.
- The home of Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung in Sunakothi was torched.
- Residences of President Ram Chandra Poudel, former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, and ex-Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were also targeted.
In response to the escalating crisis, PM Oli has called an all-party meeting and temporarily delegated responsibilities to Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Paudel. Sources suggest Oli may be preparing to leave for Dubai, citing medical reasons, with Himalaya Airlines reportedly on standby.
Curfews have been imposed in multiple districts, including Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Biratnagar, and Birgunj. Protesters have defied these restrictions, blocking highways with burning tyres and clashing with police. Over 300 people have been injured so far.
The Gen Z movement has gained traction through platforms like Reddit and Instagram, where activists have exposed the lavish lifestyles of political elites and their families. Their demands include:
- Immediate resignation of PM Oli.
- Independent investigation into corruption allegations.
- Restoration of digital freedoms and civil liberties.
As Nepal grapples with this wave of youth-led dissent, the coming days will be critical in determining whether the government can restore stability through dialogue—or face further upheaval.
