Nepal’s Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, has resigned following a series of violent protests. His aide, Prakash Salul, confirmed that the country has entered a new phase of political instability after the prime minister’s departure.
The protests, primarily led by the youth, were in response to a ban on social media and widespread corruption. On Monday, clashes between police and protesters resulted in 20 deaths and over 250 injuries. Protesters attempted to storm the parliament, prompting police to fire tear gas and rubber bullets in response.
In the wake of escalating tensions, a curfew was imposed in Kathmandu and other cities. However, protesters defied the curfew, leading to an attack on the Nepali Congress headquarters and the residences of several prominent political leaders.
Before his resignation, Oli convened a meeting with all political parties, emphasising that violence was not in anyone’s interest and that issues could only be resolved through peaceful negotiations.
In light of the emergency in the country, the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority has temporarily closed Kathmandu International Airport.
