What prompted Nepal PM Oli to call an all-party meeting?

Click to start listening
What prompted Nepal PM Oli to call an all-party meeting?

Synopsis

In the face of escalating protests that have resulted in tragic fatalities and injuries, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has convened an all-party meeting. As unrest spreads, the government lifts its social media ban, and political leaders face backlash. This situation raises crucial questions about governance and public trust in Nepal.

Key Takeaways

  • 19 fatalities reported due to violent protests.
  • Government reinstated a curfew in Kathmandu Valley.
  • Protests were sparked by allegations of corruption.
  • Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned amid unrest.
  • Social media ban lifted by the government.

Kathmandu, Sep 9 (NationPress) In light of escalating unrest, Nepal's Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has convened an all-party meeting set for Tuesday evening. This decision comes in the wake of increasingly violent protests that have resulted in 19 fatalities and numerous injuries.

In response to the renewed tensions on Tuesday, authorities reinstated a curfew across the Kathmandu Valley. Despite these measures, hundreds of protesters marched towards Parliament, openly disregarding security protocols.

What initiated as a peaceful Gen Z movement protesting alleged corruption and a government-imposed ban on social media spiraled into violent confrontations with law enforcement, leading to the tragic loss of life.

On Tuesday, demonstrations persisted as citizens voiced their anger over the police shootings that occurred the previous day.

Protesters resorted to throwing stones at police, setting fire to a traffic police booth, and attempting to breach sensitive areas. In retaliation, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Local reports indicate that demonstrators also targeted the homes of prominent political figures.

According to the major Nepalese publication, The Kathmandu Post, protesters ignited a fire at the residence of Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung, threw stones at Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Paudel's home, and assaulted the property of former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.

Additionally, the residence of Nepal Rastra Bank Governor Biswo Paudel faced similar attacks.

Efforts to storm the home of former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in Budhanilkantha were thwarted by security forces.

Stones were also hurled at the residence of opposition leader and CPN-MC chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Protests spread to various districts, where the homes of chief ministers, provincial ministers, and other leaders were targeted despite reinforced security measures.

Amid the escalating turmoil, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned following the violent crackdown that resulted in 19 deaths.

The government, without any formal announcement, also lifted its contentious ban on social media, which had ignited the youth-led protests.

On Tuesday, another resignation occurred when Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Ram Nath Adhikari stepped down, pointing to the state's inadequate response to the crisis.

Sporadic protests continued throughout the Kathmandu Valley, prompting local authorities to implement curfews and prohibit gatherings as the political situation grew increasingly dire.

Point of View

I believe that the unrest in Nepal showcases a critical juncture in the nation’s governance. With rising public dissent against government actions, it is imperative for leaders to engage and address the grievances of the citizens. The recent resignations indicate a significant shift that could reshape Nepal's political landscape. We must prioritize transparency and accountability to restore public trust.
NationPress
09/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggered the protests in Nepal?
The protests were ignited by allegations of corruption and the government's ban on social media, which frustrated the youth.
How many people have been affected by the violence?
The violent demonstrations have resulted in 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
What actions did the government take in response?
The government reinstated a curfew and lifted its controversial social media ban amidst the protests.
Who has resigned from the government due to the unrest?
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and Minister for Agriculture Ram Nath Adhikari have both resigned.
What is the current situation in Nepal?
Sporadic protests continue across Kathmandu Valley, and security measures have been tightened.