Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday after violent Gen Z-led protests against his government intensified despite the lifting of a controversial social media ban. His aide Prakash Silwal confirmed the resignation.
The protests entered their second day as demonstrators demanded Oli’s ouster and the government’s dismissal, following Monday’s clashes that left at least 20 people dead and more than 250 injured.
Just hours before stepping down, Oli had appealed to protesters to maintain peace and restraint, urging dialogue to resolve the crisis.
He had also called an all-party meeting for 6 p.m. to seek a political solution. “Any form of violence is not in the national interest. We must adopt peaceful dialogue and discussion,” Oli said in his statement.
According to army sources, Oli earlier sought assistance from Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel to secure his residence and ensure a safe exit.
The Army Chief reportedly advised him to resign, saying the military could only stabilise the situation if he relinquished power. Sources said Oli had even considered fleeing to Dubai.
Also Read : Nepal Army Chief urges PM Oli to resign amid mass protests
Security operations intensified across Kathmandu, with helicopters deployed from the Bhaisepati ministerial quarters to evacuate officials to Tribhuvan International Airport.
At least five army helicopters transported key ministers before the airport was shut down and all flights cancelled amid escalating unrest.
Protesters, meanwhile, attacked the homes and offices of senior political leaders.
On Tuesday, they set fire to Nepal’s Parliament and vandalised the private residences of both the Prime Minister and the President. Crowds also stormed Singha Durbar, where ministers’ residences and the Parliament complex are located.
Visuals from the scene showed thick smoke rising as protesters set the Parliament building ablaze, underscoring the deepening political turmoil in the Himalayan nation.
Follow us
