Nepal Prime Minister Resigns Amid Anti-Corruption Protests
In a dramatic turn of events, Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stepped down as anti-corruption protests reach a boiling point in the capital city of Kathmandu. The scene is chaotic, with protesters storming the parliament building and setting fire to various government structures.
Amid the turmoil, over a dozen people have lost their lives and hundreds have been injured during the youth-led demonstrations. The protests were ignited by a government ban on social media platforms, widespread corruption, and limited economic opportunities.
The security forces responded aggressively, using live ammunition, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the protests across multiple cities. The death toll has risen to at least 22, as reported by Dr. Mohan Regmi, the executive director at Civil Service Hospital in Kathmandu.
At the heart of the chaos, hundreds of protesters breached Nepal’s parliament building, with smoke billowing from one section of the structure. Motorbikes were seen circling the compound, carrying away plants and paintings, while protesters danced and chanted slogans around a blazing fire at the entrance.
Inside the building, shattered windows and graffiti adorned the walls, reflecting the anger and frustration of the protesters. This unrest marks the worst turmoil Nepal has faced in decades, spearheaded by the younger generation known as Generation Z.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli announced his resignation in a letter citing the “extraordinary situation” in the country. The protests show no signs of abating as demonstrators defy curfews and social media bans imposed by the government.
The economic disparity and rampant corruption in Nepal have fueled the unrest, with youth demanding better opportunities and accountability from the authorities. The violent clashes between protesters and security forces have drawn condemnation from international organizations, calling for an independent investigation into the crackdown.
With the resignation of Prime Minister Oli and other officials, Nepal is at a crossroads, grappling with the need for a new leadership amid the ongoing crisis. The future remains uncertain as lawmakers navigate the path towards forming an interim government and addressing the grievances of the protesting youth.
