New Delhi: Former Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has been arrested over his alleged role in last year’s deadly anti-corruption protests, marking a dramatic political development in the Himalayan nation.
Oli was taken into custody from his residence in Gundu, Bhaktapur, by Nepal Police. Alongside him, former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was also arrested in connection with the case.
Arrest follows new government’s formation
The arrests came just a day after Balendra Shah took oath as Nepal’s new Prime Minister following recent parliamentary elections.
Confirming the development, Kathmandu Valley police spokesperson Om Adhikari said the legal process would proceed as per law. Soon after, newly appointed Home Minister Sudan Gurung stated that the action was part of delivering justice and not an act of political revenge.
“A promise is a promise. No one is above the law,” Gurung said, adding that the country was entering a new phase of accountability.
However, Oli termed his arrest “vindictive” and asserted that he would challenge the case legally.
Background: Deadly Gen Z protests
The arrests stem from the violent anti-corruption protests that erupted across Nepal on September 8 and 9 last year.
The protests, largely driven by young citizens, began over a temporary social media ban but quickly escalated into a nationwide movement fuelled by economic discontent and governance issues.
More than 70 people, including at least 19 youths, were killed during the unrest. The protests intensified further as demonstrators set fire to Parliament and several government offices, ultimately leading to the collapse of the Oli-led government.
Probe panel findings and legal action
Following the elections, the new government led by Balendra Shah formed a high-level panel to investigate the violence.
The commission’s report reportedly concluded that while there was no direct order to open fire, authorities failed to take adequate steps to control the situation. It highlighted negligence at the highest levels, stating that the inaction led to civilian casualties, including minors.
Based on these findings, the panel recommended up to 10 years of imprisonment for those deemed responsible, including Oli and Lekhak.
The report also called for action against several senior officials, including former Nepal Police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung.
Political transition and interim leadership
In the aftermath of the protests and the government’s collapse, Nepal witnessed a brief interim phase under Sushila Karki, the country’s first female Chief Justice, who came out of retirement to stabilise the administration.
Her tenure is widely regarded as a crucial period that helped maintain order during a politically sensitive time.
Conclusion
The arrest of KP Sharma Oli marks a significant moment in Nepal’s political landscape, signalling the new government’s intent to pursue accountability over last year’s violence. As legal proceedings unfold, the case is expected to have far-reaching implications for governance, justice, and political stability in Nepal.