Nepal Ex-PM Oli Arrested Over Protest Deaths
Nepal’s former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli has been arrested over the deaths linked to the 2025 Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests, in a major development that has sharply intensified the country’s political turmoil just after a change in government. The arrest follows recommendations from an official investigation panel that examined the deadly crackdown and the role of top officials during the unrest.
K P Sharma Oli Arrested Over Protest Deaths
Police took Oli into custody as part of an investigation into whether senior leaders failed to prevent the violence that erupted during the youth-led protests. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was also detained in connection with the same case. The action comes after the probe panel recommended prosecution over negligence linked to the deadly crackdown.
Gen Z Protests Triggered Political Upheaval
The protests, led largely by young anti-corruption demonstrators, shook Nepal in September 2025 and eventually led to the fall of Oli’s government. The unrest left dozens dead and thousands injured, making it one of the most serious political crises in the country in recent years. Public anger over the handling of the protests also helped drive a major electoral shift in the subsequent national election.
New Government Moves On Accountability
The arrests came shortly after Nepal’s new leadership took office, signalling that accountability for the protest violence is likely to be a priority issue. The case is expected to remain politically explosive because it involves not only the former prime minister but also broader questions about state force, governance failure and public trust in Nepal’s political establishment.
