Violent protests engulf Nepal
Widespread protests and violent clashes have engulfed Nepal amid mounting anger over government corruption, social media restrictions and rising civilian casualties. The unrest has led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli who stepped down to pave the way for a potential constitutional resolution to the crisis.
In recent days, at least 19 people have been killed and over 100 injured following clashes between protesters and security forces. The violence has included attacks on residences of high-profile politicians including Oli and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba as well as vandalism at political party headquarters. Protesters defying an indefinite curfew have stormed government buildings and set fire to several residences and offices including Oli’s house in Balakot and Deuba’s in Budhanilkantha.
Amid the chaos, domestic flights at Tribhuvan International Airport have nearly ceased operations due to security concerns according to Nepal’s aviation authority. The protests initially triggered by a social media ban have expanded into a broad movement demanding accountability, transparency and reforms in governance.
Prime Minister Oli announced his resignation on Wednesday stating he was doing so to allow for a “constitutional solution” to Nepal’s political crisis. His resignation follows days of intense protests which saw a surge in youth participation across Kathmandu and other cities. Several ministers including Minister for Water Supply Pradeep Yadav, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Ram Nath Adhikari and Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak have resigned in protest against the government’s heavy-handed crackdown.
The situation remains volatile. Videos circulating on social media show protesters entering the Parliament complex and vandalizing government properties. The residences of prominent leaders such as Sher Bahadur Deuba and Maoist Center leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal have been targeted with petrol bombs and vandalism highlighting the widespread anger and frustration among the populace.
In the midst of the turmoil, foreigners like Roger Woodend originally from Coleraine, Northern Ireland now residing in the Philippines reported being evacuated from their hotels in Kathmandu as protests intensified outside their accommodations. Woodend described a tense scene with smoke and a violent standoff outside his hotel and expressed concerns about crossfire during the clashes.
Among those protesting are individuals like 35-year-old Rachana Sapkota who joined the demonstrations demanding justice for those killed and an end to corruption. “After seeing what happened yesterday my humanity didn’t allow me to stay at home,” she said.
As Nepal grapples with its worst unrest in decades, many citizens remain in shock over the violence and destruction. The government’s failure to contain the protests has led to a crisis of confidence, with calls for urgent political reforms and accountability echoing across the Himalayan nation.