Kathmandu: Nepal is facing one of the most severe political crises in its modern history. In a dramatic turn of events, both the Prime Minister and the President have resigned within hours of each other, leaving the country leaderless amid nationwide protests, civil unrest, and deepening public disillusionment with the political elite.
The crisis was sparked by the government's controversial decision to impose a blanket ban on all major social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). The move was initially justified as a measure to "preserve national security and public order," but it immediately drew backlash, particularly from the country’s younger population. The ban was short-lived it was lifted within days but by then, the spark had ignited a wildfire.
Massive protests erupted in Kathmandu and quickly spread across other cities. The movement, largely led by Gen-Z activists and university students, turned into a broader rebellion against corruption, cronyism, and the entrenched political order that has governed Nepal for decades. Symbolism played a central role in these uprising protesters carried the iconic "Straw Hat" flag from the anime One Piece, transforming it into an emblem of resistance and youth empowerment.
As the demonstrations intensified, violent clashes broke out between protesters and security forces. Government buildings, including the parliament and Supreme Court premises, were set on fire. The official residences of the Prime Minister and the President were also attacked. The death toll has continued to rise, with at least 22 people confirmed dead and many more injured.
Amid this chaos, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, a dominant figure in Nepali politics and a four-time PM, resigned. Oli stated that he was stepping down to prevent further bloodshed, but critics argue that his government’s authoritarian tendencies and mishandling of the crisis left him with little choice. Just hours later, President Ram Chandra Poudel also submitted his resignation, citing the need for “fresh leadership” to guide the country out of its current turmoil.
With both top positions in the government now vacant, protesters are calling for the appointment of Kathmandu’s mayor, Balendra “Balen” Shah, as interim Prime Minister. Shah, a former rapper and structural engineer turned independent politician, has built a reputation as a transparent and effective leader. Many young Nepalese see him as a symbol of change untainted by party politics and capable of navigating the country through a much-needed political reset.
Balen Shah has not made a formal statement regarding the demand, but sources close to him suggest that he is monitoring the situation closely. Whether he will step into national leadership remains uncertain, but the momentum behind him is growing rapidly.
Meanwhile, the Nepalese Army and security forces have called for calm and issued statements urging restraint on all sides. Behind closed doors, political leaders are scrambling to form an interim government, but the lack of public trust in the existing parties has left a vacuum that protesters hope will be filled by new, independent leadership.
International observers, including those from neighboring India and Western diplomatic missions, are expressing concern over the unfolding situation. Nepal’s stability is crucial to the region, and the fear of a military intervention or prolonged power vacuum has raised alarm bells globally.
As of now, Nepal stands at a crossroads. With its top leaders gone, its youth in open rebellion, and its democratic institutions under attack, the country's next steps will determine whether it spirals further into chaos or finds a way to rebuild with new leadership at the helm. The name on every protester’s lips Balendra Shah might just be the key to that future.