Protests erupt in Nepal demanding release of former PM K P Sharma Oli

Protests have erupted in Nepal with demonstrators demanding the release of former prime minister K P Sharma Oli, who was recently detained in connection with a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests last year.

Hundreds of supporters gathered in parts of the country, including the capital Kathmandu, calling for Oli’s immediate release and accusing authorities of political targeting.

Oli was arrested as part of an investigation into his alleged role in the violent suppression of youth-led anti-corruption protests in September 2025. The demonstrations, widely referred to as “Gen Z protests”, had escalated into nationwide unrest and led to significant casualties.

According to investigators, Oli is being examined for alleged negligence in failing to prevent the deaths during the crackdown. A government-backed panel had earlier recommended legal action against him and other senior officials, including his former home minister.

The arrest has triggered a strong reaction from his party, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), which has described the move as politically motivated. Party leaders have called for protests across the country, intensifying the political standoff.

Clashes were reported between protesters and security forces in some areas, as demonstrators attempted to march towards key government locations. Authorities deployed police to maintain order and prevent escalation.

Oli, a veteran political figure who has served multiple terms as prime minister, resigned in September 2025 following widespread unrest linked to the protests. The demonstrations were sparked by issues including corruption, governance concerns and a controversial social media ban, eventually forcing a political transition.

The protests and subsequent crackdown resulted in dozens of deaths and injuries, making it one of the most significant episodes of political unrest in recent years in Nepal.

Following the political upheaval, a new government took office after elections, with a mandate that included ensuring accountability for the violence during the protests. Oli’s arrest is seen as part of those efforts.

However, his supporters argue that the action is selective and aimed at sidelining opposition leadership. Legal representatives of the former prime minister have also questioned the validity of the charges and indicated that they will challenge the arrest in court.

The situation remains tense, with further protests expected in the coming days as political divisions deepen. Observers say the developments could have broader implications for Nepal’s political stability, especially as the country navigates a transition following last year’s unrest.

Authorities have urged restraint, even as calls for justice and accountability continue from both supporters and critics of the former prime minister.