Nepal Prime Minister Resigns After Deadly Protests
Amnesty International reported that live ammunition was used against demonstrators on Monday, leaving at least 19 people dead.
Nepal’s Prime Minister resigned on Tuesday, a day after one of the deadliest crackdowns in years left at least 19 protesters dead.
“In order to move towards a political solution and address the ongoing crisis, I have resigned from the post of Prime Minister with effect from today,” KP Sharma Oli wrote in a letter to the president.
The protests, which erupted on Monday over demands to lift a social media ban and curb corruption, persisted even after online platforms were restored. Amnesty International reported that security forces had fired live ammunition at demonstrators.
Oli, 73, began his fourth term last year after his Communist Party formed a coalition with the centre-left Nepali Congress in Nepal’s often turbulent parliament.
Public frustration has deepened amid political instability, rampant corruption, and sluggish economic growth in the Himalayan nation of 30 million people. Government data shows that nearly 43 percent of the population is between 15 and 40 years old, while unemployment remains around 10 percent and GDP per capita stands at just $1,447, according to the World Bank.
Nepal transitioned to a federal republic in 2008 following a decade-long civil war and the abolition of its monarchy. However, a revolving door of ageing leaders and constant political bargaining have reinforced the view that the government is disconnected from ordinary citizens.
Adding fuel to the anger, viral TikTok videos since Friday have highlighted the stark contrast between struggling Nepalis and the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children flaunting luxury goods and vacations abroad.
What's Your Reaction?
