KATHMANDU: A commission in Nepal has recommended the prosecution of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli in connection with the deadly September 2025 youth uprising that toppled his government, according to a leaked report.
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At least 77 people were killed during the anti-corruption protests on September 8–9, which erupted over a temporary social media ban but reflected deeper frustrations over economic hardship. The unrest also saw parliament and government buildings set ablaze, ultimately leading to Oli’s ouster.
The 74-year-old four-time prime minister was recently defeated in elections by 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, whose Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured a landslide victory, promising to end corruption, curb elite dominance, and address economic challenges.
The commission report recommends investigation and prosecution not only against Oli but also former interior minister Ramesh Lekhak and ex-police chief Chandra Kuber Khapung, citing “negligent conduct” that contributed to civilian deaths. The report notes that while no order to shoot was established, authorities failed to prevent further casualties, including minors, with autopsies showing 48 of 63 victims died of bullet wounds, primarily to the chest and head.
The inquiry, led by interim prime minister and former chief justice Sushila Karki, involved questioning over 200 individuals and compiling a 900-page report along with 8,000 pages of supporting evidence. Although the report has been leaked, the official release is pending.
The new parliament, elected on March 5, held its inaugural session on Thursday, with 182 of 275 seats won by the RSP. Balendra Shah is expected to be sworn in as prime minister on Friday, following the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected members.
