Authorities in Nepal have arrested former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli in connection with the deaths of dozens of protesters during last year’s violent anti-government demonstrations.
Police detained Oli early Saturday from his residence on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was also taken into custody over allegations that he ordered security forces to open fire on demonstrators.
Government Promises Accountability
Home Minister Sudan Gurung confirmed the arrests, stating that the move is part of a broader effort to ensure accountability.
“No one is above the law,” Gurung said, adding that the action is aimed at delivering justice rather than political retaliation.
The arrests follow the findings of a government-appointed investigation commission, which recommended prison sentences of up to 10 years for key officials linked to the crackdown, including senior police leadership at the time.
Deadly Protests Spark Political Upheaval
The charges stem from mass protests in September 2025, when thousands of demonstrators—many of them young activists—took to the streets to protest corruption and poor governance.
The unrest turned violent, leaving at least 76 people dead and more than 2,300 injured. Protesters attacked government buildings, including the offices of top leaders, forcing officials to flee amid widespread chaos.
The upheaval ultimately led to the collapse of the government and triggered fresh parliamentary elections.
New Leadership Moves Swiftly
The arrests come just one day after Balendra Shah was sworn in as Nepal’s new prime minister following a landslide electoral victory by the Rastriya Swatantra Party.
Shah, along with Gurung, had pledged to pursue justice for victims of the protests, signaling a shift toward accountability under the new administration.
Transitional Period and Political Fallout
Following the سقوط of the previous government, Nepal briefly came under a transitional administration led by Sushila Karki, the country’s first female prime minister and a former chief justice. Her interim leadership paved the way for elections earlier this month.
Analysts say the arrests could mark a turning point in Nepal’s political landscape, where calls for transparency and reform have intensified in recent years.
Uncertain Road Ahead
While many citizens have welcomed the move as a step toward justice, the arrests of high-profile political figures may also deepen divisions within the country’s राजनीतिक system.
As investigations proceed, the focus will remain on whether Nepal’s institutions can fairly handle such a high-stakes case while maintaining political stability.
