PM Oli Resigned: Nepal Faces Major Political Crisis

Nepal is currently experiencing a major political crisis. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has resigned after widespread protests led primarily by young people, especially Generation Z. The unrest began following a controversial social media ban and allegations of government corruption. This article explores the events that led to PM Oli’s resignation, the role of social media in mobilizing protests, the historical and political context, and the potential implications for Nepal’s future.

The Spark: Social Media Ban and Youth Outrage

On September 4, 2025, the Nepalese government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Officials claimed the move aimed to curb fake news and online fraud through new registration regulations. Many citizens, however, saw it as an attempt to restrict free speech.

The ban quickly ignited mass unrest. Nepal’s youth, particularly Generation Z, rely heavily on social media for communication, news, and civic engagement. The sudden restriction amplified frustrations over political stagnation and corruption, sparking widespread anger.

Known as the “Gen Z protests,” the demonstrations moved swiftly from online dissent to physical street confrontations. Protesters accused the government of censorship and demanded the restoration of their digital rights. Social media itself became a critical tool for organizing protests, sharing updates in real time, and drawing international attention.

Escalation: From Protests to Bloodshed

Tensions escalated dramatically on September 8 when clashes erupted between protesters and security forces in Kathmandu. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets, resulting in at least 19 deaths and over 100 injuries. The violence shocked the nation and drew condemnation from international human rights organizations.

The severity of the unrest forced the government to lift the social media ban on September 9 during an emergency cabinet meeting. Despite this move, public outrage persisted. Protesters demanded accountability for the deaths and called for an end to systemic corruption.

The unrest quickly spread beyond Kathmandu. Demonstrators targeted the homes of political figures, including Prime Minister Oli and Communication Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung. The protests highlighted the depth of frustration among Nepal’s youth, who feel disconnected from traditional political processes.

PM Oli Resigned Amid Mounting Pressure

Under immense pressure from the public and growing demands for accountability, PM Oli resigned on September 9. His aide confirmed that the resignation was intended to help resolve the ongoing crisis. Reports suggest that Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel advised him to step down, recognizing the protests’ potential to escalate further.

Oli’s resignation marks a major turning point in Nepalese politics. His departure leaves the country at a crossroads, facing significant political uncertainty. Calls for new elections and systemic reforms have increased, emphasizing the urgent need for governance changes.

Historical Context: Political Turbulence in Nepal

Nepal has a long history of political instability. Since becoming a federal democratic republic in 2008, the country has experienced frequent government changes. Prime Ministers often face pressure from political rivals and public unrest, making sustained leadership difficult.

PM Oli’s resignation fits into this broader context, reflecting both the fragility of Nepal’s political system and the increasing power of public opinion, particularly from younger generations. Past governments have struggled with corruption, weak institutions, and limited economic opportunities, factors that contributed to the intensity of the recent protests.

The Role of Gen Z: A New Era of Activism

A defining feature of these protests is the leadership role of Generation Z. Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z in Nepal is tech-savvy, politically aware, and deeply connected through social media. They have used digital platforms to challenge traditional power structures and hold leaders accountable.

Unlike previous generations, Gen Z relies on digital tools to organize, document, and amplify their messages. The social media ban not only restricted their communication but became a symbol of broader government control. This generational activism has set a precedent for how youth movements can influence national politics in Nepal.

Government Response and Accountability

Initially, the Nepalese government attempted to suppress the protests using police force, but this strategy failed to quell public anger. Following violent clashes, the government lifted the social media ban and pledged to investigate the unrest.

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned, taking moral responsibility for the deaths of protesters. The resignations of both PM Oli and the Home Minister underline the seriousness of the political crisis and the urgent need for reforms.

Implications for Nepal’s Political Future

The resignation of PM Oli represents both a crisis and an opportunity for Nepal. Politically, the country is in a transitional phase. Fresh elections could usher in a new leadership capable of addressing corruption, political stagnation, and economic challenges.

Yet, instability may continue if systemic reforms are not implemented. The protests have revealed deep dissatisfaction among young citizens, which could fuel future unrest unless the government takes meaningful steps to engage with the population and reform governance structures.

Internationally, Nepal’s neighbors, India and China, are closely monitoring the situation. How the country navigates this transitional period will affect regional diplomacy, trade, and foreign relations.

Social Media and Political Engagement

The events leading to PM Oli’s resignation underscore the importance of social media in modern political activism. Platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and X played a pivotal role in mobilizing protests, disseminating real-time information, and garnering global attention.

Governments worldwide face challenges when regulating social media without infringing on free speech. Nepal’s crisis illustrates how digital platforms are deeply intertwined with political accountability and civic participation. Future regulations must balance security concerns with citizens’ rights to freely express themselves online.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next

Nepal now stands at a critical juncture. Forming an independent investigative panel to examine the protests, assess government actions, and propose preventive measures will be essential. The findings could reshape Nepalese politics, strengthen democratic institutions, and ensure accountability.

Rebuilding trust in governance, creating economic opportunities, and actively involving young citizens in decision-making will determine the nation’s stability in the years ahead.

Nepal’s recent political crisis highlights the rising influence of youth activism and social media in shaping national politics. PM Oli resigned under immense pressure, exposing both the vulnerability of Nepal’s political system and the determination of young citizens to demand accountability.

As Nepal navigates this uncertain period, there is hope that the nation will emerge stronger, committed to justice, transparency, and democratic governance. The resignation of PM Oli marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another—one where citizens, particularly the youth, are asserting their voices and shaping the country’s future.

FAQs About PM Oli’s Resignation

1. Why did PM Oli resign?
PM Oli resigned following violent protests triggered by the social media ban and corruption allegations. At least 19 people died during clashes, compelling him to step down.

2. What triggered the Gen Z protests?
The protests started after the government banned 26 social media platforms for failing to register under new regulations. The move was perceived as a violation of free speech and a reflection of broader governmental negligence.

3. How did the government respond?
The government lifted the social media ban, launched an investigation into the unrest, and accepted Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak’s resignation.

4. What are the demands of the protesters?
Protesters demand justice for victims, accountability for corrupt officials, and significant governance reforms.

5. What is the current situation in Nepal?
The situation remains tense, with ongoing protests and calls for new elections. PM Oli’s resignation has not fully appeased public anger, and the country faces challenges in rebuilding trust in its institutions.

6. How has Gen Z influenced the protests?
Gen Z leveraged social media to organize, communicate, and amplify their message, demonstrating the transformative power of youth activism in national politics.

7. What are the international implications of Nepal’s crisis?
Nepal’s neighbors, India and China, are closely monitoring developments. The resolution of this political turmoil will impact regional relations, trade, and diplomacy.