Nepal’s Prime Minister announced his resignation on Monday after weeks of mass demonstrations against corruption and nepotism reached a boiling point, fueled by a youth-led movement targeting so-called “nepo kids” the privileged children of political elites.
The decision follows some of the largest street protests the country has seen in nearly two decades. Tens of thousands, many from Generation Z, have been demanding accountability from leaders they accuse of enriching themselves while ordinary citizens struggle with inflation, unemployment, and poor services.
The protests began when reports surfaced alleging that the children of senior politicians had received plum government contracts and scholarships abroad despite lacking merit. The phrase “nepo kids” quickly spread on social media, becoming a rallying cry for demonstrators.
At least 19 people have been killed in clashes with security forces in recent days, according to hospital officials. Rights groups have condemned the excessive use of force, while international observers urged Nepal to respect freedom of assembly.
In a televised address, the Prime Minister said he was stepping down “in the interest of peace and stability” and to allow a new government to rebuild trust with citizens. “I hear the anger of the people,” he said. “Corruption and favoritism must be confronted without compromise.”
Opposition leaders welcomed the resignation but warned that deeper reforms are needed. “This is only the beginning,” said Ramesh Adhikari, head of the National Democratic Party. “The young people of Nepal will not settle for cosmetic change.”
Analysts say the protests mark a generational shift in Nepalese politics. Nearly half of the country’s population is under 25, and activists have been quick to harness social media to organize rallies, share evidence of alleged corruption, and amplify calls for systemic reform.
With the prime minister’s departure, Nepal faces a period of political uncertainty. Parliament is expected to convene this week to select a successor, but protesters say demonstrations will continue until concrete anti-corruption measures are enacted.
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