Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is reportedly preparing to leave for Dubai amid the intensifying Gen Z protests, with sources claiming a private jet has been kept on standby for his departure.
Oli has temporarily handed over responsibilities to Deputy Prime Minister as violent demonstrations continue for the second straight day. Multiple ministerial resignations have further deepened the political crisis.
All-party meeting at 6 PM
Earlier in the day, Oli announced an all-party meeting at 6 pm to seek a “meaningful conclusion” to the unrest. “I humbly request all brothers and sisters to remain calm in this difficult situation,” his office stated.
Protesters torch PM’s residence, demand resignation
The protests turned violent as agitators torched Oli’s Balkot residence in Bhaktapur while chanting slogans like “KP Chor, Desh Chhod” (KP thief, leave the country). Residences of several leaders, including former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak, were also attacked.
Clashes intensify
Protesters defied curbs on public gatherings across Kathmandu and Lalitpur, burning tyres and blocking roads. Police opened fire in Kalanki, injuring at least four demonstrators.
What protesters want
The Gen Z-led agitation, which has accused politicians of corruption and lavish lifestyles, was triggered by the government’s controversial ban on 26 social media platforms. Protesters demand Oli’s resignation, a national government, action against corrupt leaders, guaranteed freedom of expression, and a retirement age for politicians.
Though the government restored access to social media late Monday, anger continues to boil on the streets.
