Nepal Prime Minister Oli Resigns Amidst Widespread Unrest Following Social Media Ban

Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli has resigned as Prime Minister of Nepal, stepping down on September 9, 2025, after a period of intense nationwide unrest. The crisis was sparked by a government ban on numerous social media platforms, which escalated into widespread protests, violence, and a public re-evaluation of governance and freedom of expression.

The Nepalese government enacted a ban on 26 social media platforms on September 4, 2025, citing regulatory non-compliance and the need to monitor "undesirable" content. This move was widely perceived as an attempt to stifle dissent and curtail fundamental freedoms, particularly resonating with the nation's youth. Despite the government's subsequent decision to lift the ban on September 8, 2025, public outcry had already reached a critical point.

The initial peaceful demonstrations, led by young citizens and dubbed "Gen Z protests," evolved into significant confrontations on September 8, 2025. Reports indicate that security forces responded with considerable force, resulting in a tragic loss of life, with casualty figures ranging from at least 19 to over 50 individuals, and hundreds more injured. The unrest saw protesters targeting government infrastructure, including the parliament building, and the residences of prominent political figures, reflecting deep-seated societal dissatisfaction.

While the social media ban served as the immediate catalyst, the underlying causes of the unrest were rooted in years of mounting frustration over systemic corruption, pervasive nepotism, and a stark lack of economic opportunities for Nepal's youth. The visible disparity between the opulent lifestyles of the children of political elites and the daily struggles of ordinary citizens amplified this discontent. Social media platforms had become indispensable for communication, organizing, and voicing grievances against a political establishment perceived as disconnected and self-serving.

Faced with escalating chaos and widespread demands for accountability, Prime Minister Oli submitted his resignation to President Ram Chandra Poudel on September 9, 2025. His departure marked the conclusion of his fourth term, which commenced on July 15, 2024. This event underscored the fragility of Nepal's political landscape and the potent capacity of youth-led movements to drive significant societal transformation.

The government's attempt to control online discourse through the social media ban proved to be a miscalculation, ultimately demonstrating the power of digital platforms to mobilize and amplify public sentiment. This incident reflects a broader global pattern where governments grapple with the complexities of digital expression, often leading to restrictive measures that inadvertently fuel greater public engagement and unrest. Analysts observed that such attempts to preempt dissent can, in fact, serve as a catalyst for widespread public re-evaluation and demand for change. The events of September 2025 represent a significant moment for Nepal, illustrating the profound impact of collective action and the undeniable aspiration for transparency, accountability, and genuine reform.