Nepal has been gripped by its worst unrest in decades, as anti-corruption protests led by young people force the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
What began as outrage over a social media ban has now spiralled into a nationwide movement
The protest demands accountability, transparency, and reform.
Here are five important things to know about the protests shaking the Himalayan nation.
1. Prime Minister Resigns Amid Deadly Clashes
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down after violent clashes between protesters and security forces left at least 22 people dead and nearly 200 injured.
Also, his office announced that the resignation was intended to “pave the way for a constitutional solution” to the crisis.
Despite his departure, it remains unclear who will lead Nepal next, as protesters continue to demand systemic change rather than leadership reshuffling.
2. The Social Media Ban Sparked the Uprising
The protests were initially triggered by the government’s decision to ban 26 social media platforms.
This includes WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, after they failed to register with the Ministry of Communication.
With Nepal having one of the highest social media usage rates in South Asia, the ban sparked outrage, particularly among Gen Z.
Although the government repealed the ban, the move exposed wider frustrations with corruption and curbs on freedom of expression.
3. Gen Z is Leading the Movement
A defining feature of the protests is their youth-driven nature.
Thousands of young people, including college and even school students, have taken to the streets across major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Itahari.
Also, they proudly identify as Gen Z.
They uses it as a rallying cry against what they see as a corrupt political system.
With no central leadership, the movement has grown organically through social media calls to action and youth collectives.
4. The ‘NepoKids’ Trend Exposes Elite Privilege
The hashtags #NepoKids and #NepoBaby have gone viral.
The hashtags fuelled by videos showing the extravagant lifestyles of politicians’ children compared with the daily struggles of ordinary Nepalis.
Also, protesters argue that the political elite live lavishly on public funds while young people face unemployment, inequality, and forced migration.
These slogans have become powerful symbols of anti-nepotism sentiment
Also, growing frustration with systemic inequality.
5. What Happens Next Remains Uncertain
With the prime minister gone and the army chief, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, warning against continued unrest, Nepal’s future is uncertain.
The army has pledged to maintain order but also invited protesters to dialogue.
However, since the movement has no single leader, negotiations may prove difficult.
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Analysts warn that if the government fails to engage meaningfully, the unrest could escalate further, as civil society groups and students continue to defy curfews and demand reforms.
