Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down from his position on Monday, Reuters said, citing officials. The decision follows massive protests by citizens, who were on the roads to rally against social media ban by the government.
At least 19 people were killed in the clashes between police and protestors. Moreover, dozens were injured as curfew was imposed in several districts of the country.
Large-Scale Violence During the Protests
Moments before the resignation of KP Sharma, the protestors had attacked Parliament and put the building on fire. The demonstrators reportedly also destroyed houses of almost all major ministers of Nepal, which also includes the home of KP Sharma Oli. The protestors were heard chanting “KP Chor, Desh Chhod” (Thief KP, Quit Country). They also sought action against corruption, reports said.
Earlier, the home of Ramesh Lekhak, Nepal’s former home minister, was torched by the demonstrators. The protests, dubbed as the ‘GenZ Protests,’ had started after the government blocked 26 social media apps. This included Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
Meanwhile, former Nepali King Gyanendra has spoken for the first time since the protests began. In an official statement, he has regretted the killings of protesters and the violence that occurred in the demonstrations. Furthermore, he called for better governance, non-violence, and peace.
Former King Gyanendra Hopeful of a Better Future
The statement follows widespread rallies against the social media ban by the Nepali government which later developed into protests against corruption also.
Former King Gyanendra was forced to abdicate his throne in 2008 after a similar protest. Offering condolences and prayers for the dead, he expressed hope for swift recovery of the wounded.
“It is extremely tragic and condemnable that, instead of addressing the legitimate demands of the younger generation, lives were lost and many were injured,” the statement said. “This incident is contrary to the values of the peace-loving Nepali society.”
The former king said that while the protestors were right for demanding better governance, he rejected the violence that occurred in the protests. He also urged the demonstrators to ensure there is no ‘infiltration’ by foreign elements in the movement.
