Generation Z Leads Nepal Protests That Topple Prime Minister
Thousands of young Nepalese clashed with police over a social media ban and entrenched corruption, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli after 21 deaths and nearly 200 injuries.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned after 21 protesters were killed in clashes with police during mass demonstrations sparked by a controversial social media ban and longstanding corruption grievances.
His departure aims to pave the way for a constitutional solution to widespread youth-led unrest that erupted when authorities blocked 26 platforms for not registering under new rules—a ban lifted after widespread outrage.
The protests turned violent as thousands of young people, many identifying themselves as Generation Z, stormed the streets of Kathmandu. Security forces responded with tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition, leaving nearly 200 injured.
Unrest spread beyond the capital, with demonstrators setting fire to the Nepali Congress Party headquarters and vandalizing the homes of top politicians, including former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Origins of the Social Media Ban
Nepal has one of South Asia’s highest social media use rates per capita. Last week, the government banned WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and 23 other platforms for failing to register under stringent new rules. Critics accused the administration of using the ban to stifle anti-corruption activism. The ban was repealed on Monday night but had already ignited widespread anger.
Escalation of Unrest Nationwide
Violence erupted in Kathmandu and other key cities. Police deployed water cannons, batons and rubber bullets as crowds breached the perimeter of the parliament building, forcing a curfew and tightened security around government sites.
By Tuesday, reports emerged of arson attacks and vandalism at the residences of senior politicians, including the homes of KP Sharma Oli and Sher Bahadur Deuba in Bhaktapur and Budhanilkantha.
Local hospitals treated gunshot wounds and rubber-bullet injuries as police confirmed several officers were also hurt. As of Tuesday, at least 21 people had died and casualty figures were expected to rise.
Profiles of the Protesters
The movement has been driven by Nepal’s youth, especially those born after 1997. Lacking a single leader, youth collectives organised demonstrations via social media, calling on students from Kathmandu, Pokhara and Itahari to bring books and march in uniform—and videos show even schoolchildren joining in.
Core Demands of the Demonstrators
Protesters have two primary demands: repeal the social media ban—and it has been lifted—and a crackdown on corruption. Many see the ban as a threat to free speech and a distraction from unfulfilled political promises.
"We demand an end to corruption in Nepal," said Binu KC, 19, a college student. "Leaders promise change but deliver nothing. The ban also hindered our education by cutting off online classes." Content creator Subhana Budhathoki added, "This is bigger than social media; it's about silencing our voices, and we refuse to stay quiet."
The "NepoKids" Phenomenon
Another rallying cry has been #NepoBaby and #NepoKids, hashtags that highlight the perceived nepotism and lavish lifestyles of political families. Viral clips contrast elite extravagance—designer brands, foreign trips, luxury cars—with the struggles of ordinary Nepalis facing unemployment and forced migration.
The slogans symbolize frustration with inequality and the belief that political dynasties profit at public expense.
Possible Outcomes
Despite an indefinite curfew, protesters remain defiant. Following Oli’s resignation and the stepping down of three senior politicians, demonstrators now seek genuine accountability and systemic reform.
Analysts warn that without meaningful dialogue and reform, unrest could deepen, with civil society and student groups broadening the movement.
Youth-led protests against a social media ban and corruption forced the prime minister’s resignation and underscore a growing demand for accountability in Nepal.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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