Armed soldiers surrounded Nepal’s parliament on Wednesday as Kathmandu remained under an indefinite curfew following two days of violent anti-graft protests. The unrest, which left 19 people dead, forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign, marking the country’s worst political crisis in decades.
What Triggered the Deadly Protests in Nepal?
The protests erupted after a social media ban was announced last week. Although the government quickly rolled it back, public anger escalated when police responded to demonstrations with tear gas and rubber bullets, resulting in dozens of casualties. By Tuesday, furious crowds set fire to the main parliament hall, leaving its exterior charred while army firefighters worked to contain the flames. Burnt vehicles and twisted metal blocked roads as armored vehicles patrolled an unusually empty city.
“We are trying to normalise the situation first,” army spokesman Raja Ram Basnet said. “We are committed to protect the life and property of people.”
How Has the Violence Impacted Nepal’s Capital?
The protests did not stop at parliament. Demonstrators torched the Supreme Court, ministers’ residences, and even Oli’s private home. With shops closed, flights disrupted, and the main airport shut until evening, daily life in Kathmandu ground to a halt. Officials said prohibitory orders would remain in effect until Thursday morning as authorities and protesters prepared for possible talks.
What Happens Next for Nepal’s Government?
Calls for fresh elections are growing louder. Former Supreme Court judge Balaram K.C. urged protesters to form a negotiation team, while also pushing for parliament’s dissolution. “Parliament should be dissolved and fresh elections held,” he told Reuters. “They should discuss forming the next caretaker government.”
The majority of demonstrators were young Nepalis demanding stronger action against corruption and better economic opportunities. For years, a lack of jobs has forced millions to seek work abroad in Malaysia, the Middle East, and South Korea.
Nepal, wedged between India and China, has faced recurring instability since the monarchy was abolished in 2008. India is closely watching the crisis, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating on X, “Nepal’s stability, peace, and prosperity are of utmost importance. I humbly appeal to all my brothers and sisters in Nepal to maintain peace and order.”
By Lucky Anyanje
