In a significant political development, Nepal’s former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has been taken into custody alongside ex-Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak for their alleged roles in authorizing lethal force against demonstrators during last year’s widespread civil unrest. The arrests follow conclusive recommendations from an independent investigative commission that found both officials culpable of criminal negligence during the September crisis.
The fatal crackdown resulted in over 70 casualties, predominantly protesters fatally shot by law enforcement personnel. The initial demonstrations erupted in response to a government-imposed social media blackout but rapidly escalated into mass protests fueled by deep-seated public frustration over systemic corruption and dire economic conditions.
Police authorities confirmed the detentions occurred Saturday morning, though formal charges have not yet been filed. The investigation panel has additionally recommended prosecuting former police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung for his command decisions during the civil disturbances.
This dramatic political shift follows the recent inauguration of new Prime Minister Balen Shah, a former rapper whose election was directly precipitated by last year’s crisis. The new administration has signaled its commitment to accountability, with recently appointed Home Minister Sudan Gurung—a prominent figure during the protests—publicly endorsing the arrests on social media. Minister Gurung emphasized these actions represent the foundational application of justice rather than political retribution.