Politics – Former Nepal PM Oli Arrested Over Deadly Protest Crackdown Case
Politics – Nepal’s former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak were taken into custody on Saturday morning in connection with a violent crackdown on protestors last year, according to police officials.
Arrests Follow Formation of New Government
The arrests came just one day after Prime Minister Balendra Shah assumed office along with his cabinet, marking a significant political shift following the elections held after the 2025 uprising. Authorities confirmed that legal proceedings against both leaders would now move forward under established law.
Police spokesperson Om Adhikari stated that the detentions were part of an ongoing investigation into the events surrounding the protests, which had led to widespread unrest across the country.
Background of the September Protests
The protests erupted on September 8 and 9, initially triggered by a temporary restriction on social media platforms. However, the demonstrations quickly evolved into a broader movement fueled by dissatisfaction over economic conditions and governance issues.
Violence escalated rapidly. On the first day alone, at least 19 young protestors lost their lives. By the following day, unrest had spread nationwide, with demonstrators setting fire to parliament buildings and other government offices. The situation ultimately forced the collapse of the government led by Oli.
In total, at least 77 people were killed during the two days of turmoil, making it one of the deadliest episodes in Nepal’s recent political history.
Findings of the Investigation Commission
During the interim period that followed, a government-backed inquiry commission was established to examine the events. The commission later recommended legal action against several officials, including Oli.
While the report noted that there was no clear evidence of a direct order to open fire, it highlighted serious lapses in leadership. It concluded that authorities failed to prevent or control the use of force, resulting in unnecessary loss of life, including minors.
Medical findings supported these concerns. Out of 63 completed autopsies, 48 confirmed deaths caused by gunshot wounds, with many victims struck in critical areas such as the head and chest.
The investigation involved questioning more than 200 individuals, including senior officials. The final report spanned 900 pages, supported by an additional 8,000 pages of evidence.
Government Signals Accountability Measures
Prime Minister Shah, who rose to power on a platform emphasizing reform and youth participation, acted swiftly after taking office. His first cabinet meeting approved the implementation of the commission’s recommendations.
Home Minister Sudan Gurung, a former protest leader, described the arrests as a step toward accountability. In a public statement, he emphasized that the move was not driven by revenge but by a commitment to justice and the rule of law.
He also expressed hope that the country would move toward a more transparent and responsible political system.
Oli Denies Allegations
KP Sharma Oli has consistently rejected accusations of wrongdoing. During his election campaign earlier this month, he blamed the violence on external elements, referring to “infiltrators” who he claimed escalated the situation.
Following his arrest, reports indicate that Oli intends to challenge the charges in court. He has described the action against him as politically motivated and has vowed to pursue a legal battle.
A Long Political Career Under Scrutiny
Oli’s political journey spans nearly six decades, during which Nepal underwent major transformations, including a prolonged civil conflict and the abolition of the monarchy in 2008.
However, his final months in office were marked by growing public anger. On September 9, 2025, he stepped down as prime minister amid escalating violence, with protestors targeting his residence as well as key government institutions.
In his resignation statement at the time, Oli said he hoped his departure would create space for dialogue and help resolve the country’s political challenges.
The recent arrests now mark a significant moment in Nepal’s evolving political landscape, as the new government seeks to address past events and restore public trust.