Nepal has erupted in protest against its corrupt government as of September 5, 2025. Protesters officially flooded the streets of the capital Kathmandu on Tuesday, Sept 8th, setting fire to the Supreme Court, parliament, and other government buildings.Gen-Z is leading these protests, and they have defied police and toppled the Himalayan country’s prime minister. These protests started when the government decided to ban social media platforms, but they’re driven by deep resentment for the corrupt political ethics and lack of economic opportunities for the regular citizens.
The protest escalated just hours after starting on Monday as they fought with police in Kathmandu. An estimate of 22 people died, and over 400 people have been injured, including security forces. Buildings, furniture, and even the Prime Minister’s home were set on fire during the street-flooded protest. Police used live ammunition, water cannons, and tear gas against the protesters, Reuters news agency reported. On Tuesday, smoke clouded the sky above the capital. The country’s main international airport shut down because of the violence, according to a notice posted Tuesday afternoon. Later that evening, the Nepal Army sent troops into Kathmandu “to control the situation for the security of Nepal and Nepalis,” according to General Ashok Raj Sigdel.
Nepal has always been known for its turbulent politics and has seen more than a dozen governments since it transitioned into a republic after abolishing a 239-year-old monarchy in 2008. There has been a string of government officials who have quit despite the protest, which then caused Prime Minister Oli to quit on September 9th. Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak then resigned shortly after due to the violence, along with ministers of agriculture, water, and health.
The U.S. State Department strongly advised all US citizens visiting Nepal to shelter in a safe place until further notice. This also means not to visit or plan trips to Nepal until the violent protests are over, and it is safer for tourists to come back and visit.