The wider picture
The Gen Z protests erupted in September 2025, fueled by widespread discontent over economic hardship and governance issues in Nepal. The protests turned deadly, resulting in 76 fatalities, including 19 people killed by police firing on September 8. The unrest highlighted the urgent demand for accountability and clean governance among the youth.
On March 28, 2026, K.P. Sharma Oli, the former Prime Minister of Nepal, was arrested from his residence in Gundu, Bhaktapur. The arrest comes just a day after a new government led by Balendra Shah was sworn in, marking a dramatic shift in the political landscape. Oli faces serious charges of culpable homicide related to the protests, following a probe commission’s recommendation for prosecution due to negligent killings.
Ramesh Lekhak, a prominent figure in the previous administration, was also arrested in Suryabinayak, Bhaktapur. The commission’s report, submitted to the outgoing government on March 8, 2026, has set the stage for these significant legal actions against former leaders.
Sudhan Gurung, the new Home Minister, stated, “A promise is a promise: No one is above the law,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to justice. He described the arrests as the beginning of a long-overdue accountability process. Gurung further clarified, “This is not revenge against anyone; this is the beginning of justice,” signaling a new chapter in Nepal’s governance.
However, Oli’s party, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), has condemned the arrests, claiming they are politically motivated and unconstitutional. Yogesh Bhattarai, a party spokesperson, declared, “We will protest in the strongest form as our chairman Oli has been arrested unconstitutionally and illegally.” This reaction underscores the deep divisions within Nepal’s political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the new government will navigate these turbulent waters. A decision regarding the custody of Oli and Lekhak is expected after the courts open on Sunday, which could further impact the political climate.
The Gen Z protests were a pivotal moment in Nepal’s history, reflecting the youth’s demand for change. Activist Hari Sharma noted, “The youth demanded clean governance and accountability, but this must be achieved through the rule of law, not rule by law.” The outcome of these arrests may set a precedent for future governance in Nepal.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of these arrests, but the political landscape in Nepal is undoubtedly shifting as the new government takes bold steps towards accountability and justice.
