Gen Z Demands Arrest of Nepal’s Ousted PM Oli Over Shootout That Killed 19 Protesters

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by

Himanshu
in

Nepal’s Gen Z Uprising: Calls for Justice After Deadly Shootout

In September 2025, Nepal witnessed an unprecedented wave of youth-led protests that escalated into one of the deadliest political crises in the country’s recent history. The catalyst was a tragic incident on September 8, when security forces opened fire on demonstrators in Naya Baneshwor, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 individuals. This event has ignited a nationwide outcry, with the Gen Z movement at the forefront, demanding accountability and justice.

The Spark: Shootout in Naya Baneshwor

The protests began as a response to widespread corruption and the government’s decision to ban over 20 social media platforms. The situation intensified when, on September 8, security forces reportedly opened fire on protesters in Naya Baneshwor. The use of automatic weapons, not standard issue for the police, has raised serious questions about the involvement of higher authorities in the violence.

Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has denied ordering the shootout, attributing the violence to infiltrators who used automatic weapons not associated with the police. He has called for an investigation into the incident, distancing himself from the responsibility The Times of India.

The Gen Z Response: Calls for Arrest and Accountability

In the aftermath, the Gen Z movement, led by activists like Sudan Gurung and supported by organizations such as Hami Nepal, has demanded the arrest of former Prime Minister Oli, former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, and Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer Chhabi Rijal. They are accused of being directly responsible for the shootout that claimed 19 lives during the protests Deccan Herald.

The movement has also called for the establishment of a high-level commission to investigate the wealth of government officials, aiming to address systemic corruption that has fueled public discontent.

Political Fallout: Resignation of Prime Minister Oli

The public outcry led to significant political repercussions. On September 9, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned from his position, citing the need for national unity and peace. His resignation came after protesters set fire to the Parliament building and the homes of several prominent politicians, signaling the depth of public anger Al Jazeera.

Interim Leadership: Sushila Karki Takes Charge

Following Oli’s resignation, Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, was appointed as the interim Prime Minister. Karki has pledged to address the root causes of the protests, including corruption, unemployment, and poor governance. She has emphasized the need for transparency, job creation, and raising living standards, with parliamentary elections scheduled for March 5, 2026 Reuters.

The Aftermath: Casualties and Public Sentiment

The violence during the protests resulted in at least 72 deaths and over 2,100 injuries. Widespread destruction included fires at key government buildings and private properties. Despite the lifting of the social media ban, public anger remains high, with many questioning the government’s commitment to democratic principles and human rights Reuters.

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

Nepal stands at a critical juncture. The Gen Z movement has demonstrated the power of youth activism in challenging entrenched political structures. The demands for justice, accountability, and systemic reform reflect a broader desire for a more transparent and equitable society.

As the interim government under Sushila Karki takes steps to address these issues, the eyes of the nation and the world remain focused on Nepal. The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether the aspirations of the youth can translate into lasting political and social change.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are based on available reports and may not encompass all perspectives on the events described.