Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, resigned on September 9, 2025, following widespread protests led by Generation Z against a government-imposed social media ban and allegations of corruption. The protests, which began on September 8, escalated into violent clashes resulting in at least 19 deaths and over 400 injuries, including more than 100 police officers. Protesters stormed and set fire to the parliament building, the offices of the Nepali Congress party, and the residences of several top political leaders.
The unrest was triggered by the government’s decision to block 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter), citing non-compliance with new registration requirements. The ban was perceived as an infringement on free speech and fueled anger over systemic corruption and economic inequality.
In response to the escalating violence, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned on September 8, taking moral responsibility for the deaths of protesters. Prime Minister Oli followed suit the next day, stating his resignation was to facilitate a political solution to the crisis. President Ram Chandra Paudel has accepted Oli’s resignation, and the process to select a new leader is underway.
Despite the government’s subsequent decision to lift the social media ban, protests have continued, with demonstrators demanding broader systemic reforms and accountability for the violence.
