Nepal imposes travel bans on ex-PM Sharma Oli, four senior officials over protest violence

Nepal imposes travel bans on ex-PM Sharma Oli, four senior officials over protest violence

The demonstrations, which began on 8 September after a short-lived social media ban, soon escalated as frustrations over corruption and economic struggles fuelled wider public anger.

Nepal has imposed travel restrictions on former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and four senior officials as part of an ongoing investigation into violent unrest that shook the country earlier this month.

The order, according to AFP, announced on Monday (29 September 2025) by Interior Minister Om Prakash Aryal, follows recommendations made by a special commission tasked with examining the deadly protests.

The demonstrations, which began on 8 September after a short-lived social media ban, soon escalated as frustrations over corruption and economic struggles fuelled wider public anger.

A heavy-handed response by security forces triggered two days of bloodshed, leaving at least 73 people dead.

During the chaos, parliament and government offices were set ablaze, eventually forcing the government to collapse.

Alongside Mr Oli, those barred from travelling include former home minister Ramesh Lekhak, ex-chief of the National Investigation Department Hutaraj Thapa, and two senior bureaucrats.

AFP further adds that the restrictions also prevent the five men from leaving the Kathmandu Valley unless given official approval, as they may be required for questioning at any time, commission member Bigyan Raj Sharma confirmed in a statement.

Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who is steering the nation until fresh elections in March 2026, established the commission soon after taking office.

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