Introduction

On 9 September 2025, Nepalese Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli announced his resignation following weeks of Gen-Z-led anti-corruption protests. The protests intensified after the government imposed a controversial ban on social media, culminating in violent clashes with security forces that left at least 19 dead and over 300 injured.

Background of the Case

• Oli’s tenure had been plagued by accusations of corruption, authoritarianism, and institutional erosion.

• The immediate trigger was the government’s social media ban, viewed by young citizens as an attack on free speech and digital rights.

• For years, Oli faced criticism for weakening democratic checks, ignoring calls for reform, and suppressing dissent.

Key Developments

1. Protests Escalate: Initially peaceful demonstrations turned violent after police and paramilitary units cracked down.

2. Casualties and Damage: At least 19 deaths and 300+ injuries were reported; government buildings and vehicles were torched.

3. Leadership Crisis: Oli resigned under pressure but left no clear successor, plunging Nepal into political uncertainty.

Issues of the Case

• Youth Power vs. State Authority: The movement underscored the rising political role of digital-native youth.

• Institutional Fragility: The crisis exposed weaknesses in Nepal’s democratic institutions and checks on executive power.

• Governance Vacuum: Oli’s exit created instability with no immediate resolution or leadership roadmap.

Conclusion

The resignation of K.P. Sharma Oli marks a historic democratic turning point for Nepal. While it reflects the growing power of Gen-Z activism, it also highlights the fragility of the state’s institutions. The path forward hinges on whether Nepal’s leaders can channel popular anger into democratic reform rather than sliding deeper into unrest.