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Nepal: Ex-PM Oli Arrested Over Gen Z Protest Crackdown; Faces Negligence Charges

Former PM Oli arrested following probe into deadly Gen Z protest crackdown.

Mar 28
3 min read
Nepal: Ex-PM Oli Arrested Over Gen Z Protest Crackdown; Faces Negligence Charges

Top Summary

  • What happened: Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress leader Balkrishna Lekhak were arrested in connection with the crackdown on Gen Z protests.
  • Why it matters: The arrests highlight the new government's commitment to addressing past grievances and holding officials accountable.
  • What changes for people: Those found guilty of negligence could face up to 10 years in jail. The implementation of the probe commission's report signals a shift in government policy.
  • Who is affected: KP Sharma Oli, Balkrishna Lekhak, Chandra Kuber Khapung, the families of victims, and members of the CPN-UML.

Arrests Follow Probe into Gen Z Protests

Former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress leader Balkrishna Lekhak were arrested Saturday morning. The arrests relate to a probe commission report on the crackdown during the Gen Z protests.

The Gen Z protests led to the overthrow of the Oli government. Lekhak served as Home Minister at the time.

Negligence Allegations and Commission Findings

A commission investigated incidents from September 8 and 9. It recommended prosecuting Oli and Lekhak for negligent killings. The commission stated they failed to prevent lethal police firing.

The commission's report was submitted to the outgoing government on March 8. The report leaked to the media on Wednesday.

New Government Acts Swiftly

Following the RSP’s victory on March 5, Mr. Shah was sworn in as Prime Minister. Soon after, he appointed Sudhan Gurung as Home Minister.

Gurung, a key figure in the Gen Z protests, filed a complaint against Oli and Lekhak in October.

At its first meeting on Friday, March 27, 2026, the Shah Cabinet decided to implement the probe commission's report. Sasmit Pokharel, the Education Minister, confirmed the decision.

 

Relevant agencies have been directed to act on the commission’s recommendations.

 

Police Consultations and Potential Jail Time

Home Minister Gurung consulted with police chiefs on Friday night. This preceded the arrests of Oli and Lekhak on Saturday.

The commission also recommended prosecuting Chandra Kuber Khapung, the former police chief.

If found guilty, Oli, Lekhak, and Khapung could face jail terms of up to 10 years.

Warnings and Concerns

The report's sudden release sparked concerns about the new government's actions.

On Friday night, CPN-UML warned of "consequences" if Oli was arrested.

What to Watch Next

The legal proceedings against Oli, Lekhak, and Khapung will be closely watched. The response from Oli's CPN-UML party and its supporters will also be a key factor in the coming weeks.