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The recommendations follow the violent youth-led protests that erupted over corruption allegations and a controversial social-media ban
Nepal’s former PM KP Sharma Oli at a public event in Bhaktapur. (ANI)
Nepal’s high-level inquiry panel probing the September 8 Gen Z unrest on Sunday recommended a foreign travel ban and restrictions on leaving the Kathmandu Valley for former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and four other senior officials.
The committee named ex-Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, former Home Secretary Gokarnamani Duwadi, ex-National Investigation Department chief Hutraj Thapa, and former Kathmandu Chief District Officer Chhabi Rijal among those who must seek prior approval before any travel abroad or outside the valley.
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The recommendations follow the violent youth-led protests that erupted over corruption allegations and a controversial social-media ban.
Initially peaceful, the demonstrations turned deadly when crowds stormed government buildings, including Parliament, prompting security forces to fire tear gas, water cannons and live rounds.
At least 72 people were killed and more than 2,000 injured.
The crisis forced Prime Minister Oli to resign on September 9, a day after the clashes.
Home Minister Lekhak had already quit, taking moral responsibility for the crackdown.
An interim government headed by former chief justice Sushila Karki took charge on September 12 to restore order and oversee fresh elections due in March 2026.
Investigators said the travel curbs are meant to prevent interference with evidence and ensure key figures remain within reach of the law while the probe continues over the next three months.
Ex-PM Oli’s First Appearance
In his first public address since stepping down, Oli on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the interim government, branding it a “government of publicity” and questioning its legitimacy following nationwide Gen Z protests earlier this month.
Oli accused the interim leadership of coming to power through “vandalism and arson” rather than constitutional process or popular mandate, calling it a “Gen-Z government” that lacks democratic legitimacy.
He urged a return to constitutional norms and pledged to restore the rule of law and democratic governance.
“What does this government of publicity expect—that we will hand over the country and flee abroad?” Oli asked, arguing that the priority must be to rebuild the nation’s constitutional and democratic order and to revive responsible politics.
Responding to social media rumours that linked him to the unrest, Oli denied any involvement in incitement.
He criticised inflammatory calls circulated online urging violence — requests for guns, swords or drones — and said such messages were being promoted enthusiastically.
He added that, upon hearing reports of firing, his immediate action was to seek information on the situation.
Nepal
September 28, 2025, 20:23 IST
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