Nepal’s government has been shaken by a wave of resignations following the violent crackdown on Gen Z-led protests in Kathmandu. The demonstrations, which demanded freedom of expression and denounced government corruption, were met with heavy police force, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 500 injured earlier this week.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak stepped down, saying he was taking “moral responsibility” for the bloodshed. Agriculture Minister Ramnath Adhikari also resigned, stating that the government’s use of force against young protesters had pushed the country “toward authoritarianism.”
Sources close to the cabinet suggest that Health Minister Pradeep Paudel is also preparing to resign. Paudel reportedly told allies that remaining in office during such a crisis would not be justifiable.
The resignations come amid growing anger nationwide, as Nepalis continue to share images and testimonies of the crackdown across social media following the government’s decision to lift its controversial platform ban. Critics argue that the violent response to largely peaceful youth demonstrations has severely undermined public trust in the Oli-led administration.
Analysts say the wave of resignations reflects not only immediate political pressure but also a deeper legitimacy crisis for the ruling leadership. With young people at the forefront of the Gen Z movement, the government now faces mounting questions about its handling of dissent and the future of democratic freedoms in Nepal.
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