The wider picture
The Gen Z protests were a response to longstanding issues of economic hardship and governance in Nepal. These protests, which erupted in September 2025, were marked by widespread unrest and ultimately resulted in 76 deaths, including at least 19 individuals killed in police firing on September 8, 2025. The protests highlighted the frustrations of the youth, who demanded clean governance and accountability from their leaders.
In a significant development, K.P. Sharma Oli, the former Prime Minister of Nepal, was arrested on March 28, 2026, from his residence in Gundu, Bhaktapur. He faces serious charges of culpable homicide in connection with the events surrounding the Gen Z protests. This arrest comes just one day after a new government led by Balendra Shah was sworn in, indicating a potential shift in the political landscape of Nepal.
Oli’s arrest was not an isolated incident; Ramesh Lekhak, a prominent figure associated with the previous administration, was also taken into custody in Suryabinayak, Bhaktapur. The probe commission, which investigated the protests, recommended the prosecution of both Oli and Lekhak for negligent killings, further intensifying the scrutiny on former leaders.
Following his arrest, K.P. Sharma Oli was taken to a hospital for a check-up, raising questions about his health and the implications of his detention. The commission’s report, which was submitted to the outgoing government on March 8, 2026, has been pivotal in shaping the current legal proceedings against the former Prime Minister.
Sudhan Gurung, the new Home Minister, expressed that the arrests signify the beginning of justice, stating, “A promise is a promise: No one is above the law.” This statement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the grievances that led to the protests and holding accountable those deemed responsible for the violence.
In contrast, Oli’s party, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist), has vehemently opposed the arrests, claiming they are illegal and politically motivated. Yogesh Bhattarai, a spokesperson for the party, asserted, “We will protest in the strongest form as our chairman Oli has been arrested unconstitutionally and illegally.” This reaction reflects the deep divisions within Nepal’s political sphere and the potential for escalating tensions.
As the situation unfolds, a decision regarding the custody of K.P. Sharma Oli and Ramesh Lekhak is expected to be made after the courts reopen on Sunday. Observers are closely monitoring these developments, as they may set a precedent for how justice is administered in the wake of the Gen Z protests and could influence the future of governance in Nepal.
With the political climate in Nepal shifting rapidly, the implications of these arrests extend beyond the individuals involved. The outcome may redefine the relationship between the government and its citizens, particularly the youth who have been at the forefront of demanding change. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests, the call for accountability and justice remains a critical issue.
