Nepal arrests former prime minister and home minister over deadly ‘Gen Z protests’ crackdown

Arrests Following Violent Protests

Nepal’s police forces apprehended former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli on Saturday, marking the first major action in the investigation into the fatal clashes during youth-driven demonstrations. These protests, which erupted in September 2025, had previously destabilized the government, prompting a snap election. The arrest of Oli, along with former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, followed accusations of direct involvement in the violence that claimed dozens of lives.

Justice and Accountability

Incumbent Home Minister Sudan Gurung confirmed the arrests on social media, emphasizing the pursuit of justice. “No one is above the law. We have taken former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak under control,” Gurung stated in a Facebook post.

“This is not revenge against anyone, it is just the beginning of justice. I believe, now the country will take a new direction.”

The government-established commission has recommended up to a decade in prison for Oli, Lekhak, and the police chief who oversaw the crackdown.

New Political Leadership

The arrests occurred a day after Balendra Shah, a former rapper turned politician, assumed leadership of a newly formed government. His Rastriya Swatantra Party secured a decisive victory in the parliamentary election held earlier this month. Shah and Gurung have pledged to deliver accountability to those affected by the protests. The election followed the youth-led uprisings that began on September 8-9, 2025, which led to 76 fatalities and over 2,300 injuries.

Impact of the Protests

Following the violent demonstrations, angry crowds set fire to key government buildings, including the prime minister’s and president’s offices, as well as police stations. The unrest also targeted the residences of prominent politicians, who were evacuated via military helicopters. The protests, fueled by Gen Z activists, resulted in the 12 September 2025 appointment of Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first female prime minister, a retired Supreme Court judge who played a role in the political transition prior to the election.