In a dramatic turn of events, Nepal's Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, resigned following a wave of unrest triggered by anti-corruption protests that have resulted in the deaths of at least 19 demonstrators during clashes with police. This unrest is considered one of the worst the country has experienced in decades.
In the wake of Oli's resignation, protests escalated, with demonstrators setting fire to parliament in the capital city of Kathmandu, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky. Public anger directed toward political leaders led to attacks on government buildings across the nation.
Amidst the turmoil, reports emerged that at least 900 inmates escaped from two prisons in western Nepal as crowds continued to voice their frustrations. The protests erupted initially in response to the government's decision to block access to various social media platforms, a ban which was lifted just before protests intensified.
Nepal's army chief condemned the protesters for exploiting the crisis, pledging that security forces, including the army, were prepared to restore order. However, there is widespread uncertainty about who will lead the country moving forward, as many political figures have sought refuge due to the escalating violence.
The demonstrators appear to be expressing a broad anti-corruption sentiment, lacking an organized leadership, yet the energy and urgency of their protests suggest a deep-seated demand for a change in governance. Inside the parliament, jubilant scenes unfolded as protesters celebrated, many vandalizing property and spray-painting anti-government messages.
One young protester, Muna Shreshta, voiced her hope for meaningful change, asserting that the people of Nepal had waited long enough for accountability from their leaders. It’s high time our nation, our prime minister, and anyone in power changes, because we need to change, she stated.
The protests have gained momentum partly due to the pre-existing discontent regarding corruption and the extravagant lifestyles of political elites, sparking outrage among the youth. Last week’s social media ban had already ignited fury, seen as an infringement on free speech, before the protests rapidly spiraled out of control.
Oli announced his resignation in a letter addressed to President Ramchandra Paudel, expressing his intention to facilitate a political resolution to the crisis. The country's political future remains uncertain, as discussions for electing a new leader begin amidst calls for systemic reform and accountability.
