Sm Nahiduzzaman
Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal plunged into political turmoil on Monday as Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, widely known as Prachanda, announced his resignation following days of massive anti-corruption demonstrations that culminated in protesters storming the national parliament building.
The resignation marks a dramatic turning point in Nepal’s fragile democratic journey, only eight years after the Himalayan nation adopted its new constitution.
The Storming of Parliament
What began as peaceful demonstrations in Kathmandu’s Durbar Marg and Maitighar areas last week quickly swelled into some of the largest anti-government protests Nepal has seen in over a decade. Protesters, many of them students, activists, and ordinary citizens, accused the ruling government of shielding corrupt officials, mismanaging foreign aid, and ignoring rising youth unemployment.
On Sunday night, tensions boiled over. Thousands marched toward Singha Durbar, the seat of Nepal’s government. Security forces initially attempted to disperse the crowds with water cannons and tear gas, but by Monday morning, groups of demonstrators had breached security barriers, entered the parliament compound, and waved banners reading “No More Corruption” and “Resign Now.”
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as protesters smashed through gates while lawmakers scrambled to evacuate the chamber. “It felt like history repeating itself. The anger of the people was unstoppable,” said 23-year-old protester Sushma Shrestha.
Prime Minister’s Resignation
Faced with overwhelming public pressure and a crumbling political alliance, Prime Minister Prachanda announced his resignation in a televised address late Monday afternoon.
“I have listened to the voice of the people,” Prachanda said solemnly. “Nepal’s future cannot be built on distrust, corruption, and division. Therefore, I step down in the interest of peace and stability.”
His resignation came just hours after opposition leaders demanded a vote of no confidence, claiming his government had “lost all moral authority.”
Roots of Public Anger
Analysts say the protests were fueled by years of frustration with Nepal’s political class. Despite billions of dollars in foreign aid after the devastating 2015 earthquake, reconstruction has been painfully slow, with allegations of misappropriation at every level.
In recent months, reports surfaced linking senior officials to irregularities in infrastructure projects, citizenship schemes, and even COVID-19 relief funds. Public outrage deepened when whistleblowers claimed that top ministers were involved in bribery and contract manipulation.
“This is not just about one prime minister,” said political analyst Lok Raj Sharma. “This is about a system where corruption has become normalized, where politicians act as though they are above the law. The people of Nepal are saying enough is enough.”
International Reaction
The international community has been closely monitoring developments in Nepal. India, Nepal’s largest trading partner, expressed concern about instability in its northern neighbor, while China called for “restraint and dialogue.” The United Nations urged both protesters and security forces to avoid further violence.
Diplomats fear that prolonged unrest could destabilize the already fragile Himalayan region, which sits strategically between India and China.
What Happens Next?
Under Nepal’s constitution, the president will now invite the largest party in parliament to form a new government. But with alliances fractured and opposition parties emboldened by the protests, the road ahead remains uncertain. Some analysts warn that if leaders fail to restore public trust, Nepal could see prolonged instability or even fresh elections.
Meanwhile, protesters are vowing to continue their movement until “all corrupt leaders are held accountable.” Many say they will not leave the streets until systemic reforms are guaranteed.
Political Reactions at Home
Opposition parties were quick to celebrate Prachanda’s resignation, calling it “a victory for the people.” Leaders of the Nepali Congress, the country’s main opposition force, said they would push for an interim unity government to stabilize the country until fresh elections could be held.
However, members of Prachanda’s Maoist Centre party warned that his resignation could create a dangerous power vacuum. “Resignation alone does not solve corruption. We need reforms, not chaos,” said senior party member Dev Gurung.
Civil society groups have also called for the formation of an independent anti-corruption commission with sweeping powers to investigate high-level officials.
Voices from the Streets
Beyond political circles, the voice of ordinary citizens has been the loudest. Many protesters, especially the younger generation, say they are tired of broken promises and political gamesmanship.
“We are not here for one day of protest. We are here for the future of Nepal,” said 19-year-old university student Anil Karki. “Our leaders think they can loot the country and get away with it, but this movement is proof that the youth will not stay silent.”
Social media platforms have amplified the movement, with hashtags like #EnoughCorruptionNepal and #CleanPolitics Now trending across the region.
Finally, The resignation of Nepal’s prime minister amid mass anti-corruption protests represents more than just a change in leadership — it is a defining moment for Nepal’s young democracy. For many citizens, it is a chance to demand transparency, accountability, and a political culture free of corruption. Yet, whether Nepal’s leaders will heed that call or repeat the cycles of instability remains to be seen.
As the banners still fly outside parliament and chants echo across Kathmandu’s streets, one message is clear: the people of Nepal are no longer willing to tolerate business as usual.
