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In a statement, Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev said it was ‘extremely tragic and condemnable’ that ‘instead of addressing genuine demands of the young generation, lives were lost’
Ex-king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev expressed his condolences to those who died. (AFP)
Nepal’s former king Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev on Tuesday threw his weight behind ‘Gen Z protesters’—students and youth who have taken to the country’s streets against corruption—saying the “violent outbursts and anger expressed during these demonstrations are indeed matters of deep concern”.
In a statement, the ex-king said it was “extremely tragic and condemnable” that “instead of addressing the genuine demands of the young generation, lives have been lost and many have been injured. This incident goes against the values of the peace-loving Nepali society”.
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“On the demise of those who lost their lives in this incident, heartfelt condolences and tributes are expressed. Deep sympathy is also expressed towards the bereaved families. Prayers are offered for the speedy recovery and good health of all those injured,” the statement read.
Requesting that the movement not turn “violent, anarchic, or be infiltrated by unwanted elements”, the former king said: “The aspirations of the youth for good governance and economic discipline are recognised, and the desire of the people to see the nation overcome its challenges and move towards solutions is duly noted.”
The support from the monarchy, which ruled the country till 2008, comes even as Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli tendered his resignation on Tuesday after two days of a violent anti-corruption agitation.
“I have resigned from the post of prime minister with effect from today… in order to take further steps towards a political solution and resolution of the problems,” Oli said in a letter to the president.
Oli, 73, began his fourth term last year after his Communist Party forged a coalition government with the centre-left Nepali Congress in the often-volatile parliament.
The massive protests, which began with youth agitating against a ban on social media platforms, has assumed the shape of a larger anti-corruption movement that has led to at least 19 deaths so far.
Since Friday, videos contrasting the struggles of ordinary Nepalis with the children of politicians flaunting luxury goods and expensive vacations have gone viral on TikTok, which was not blocked. Hundreds took to the streets raising slogans against not just corruption but allegations of nepotism.
According to news agency AFP, dissatisfaction has grown with political instability, corruption, and slow economic development in the Himalayan nation of 30 million people. People aged 15-40 make up nearly 43 per cent of the population, according to government statistics, while unemployment hovers around 10 per cent and GDP per capita is just $1,447, according to the World Bank.
About the Author
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18
Kathmandu, Nepal
September 09, 2025, 15:39 IST
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