What Is Happening in Kathmandu as Protests Erupt Over KP Oli’s Arrest?

Supporters of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) have staged protests in Kathmandu against the arrest of party chairman KP Sharma Oli, gathering in large numbers at the Maitighar Mandala area.

The demonstrations began around 3 PM, with UML cadres rallying across the Maitighar–Babarmahal stretch. Protesters initially marched from Babarmahal toward New Baneshwor, but were stopped by police along the way. They later regrouped at Maitighar, continuing their protest against Oli’s arrest.

The demonstrations are linked to the events of the Gen Z movement that took place on Bhadra 23 and 24, during which authorities were accused of using excessive force. At the time, Oli was serving as Prime Minister, while Ramesh Lekhak was Home Minister. Both have since been arrested, prompting UML to launch protests nationwide.

Tensions escalated when a group of protesters attempted to move toward the southern gate of Singha Durbar. Police responded with baton charges to disperse the crowd. Several UML supporters, including local activist Yubaraj Oli, were injured in the clash. He reportedly sustained a head injury and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment after heavy bleeding.

Clashes between protesters and police were also reported near the Kathmandu District Court in Babarmahal. The situation turned increasingly volatile as demonstrators hurled stones at security personnel, leading to further use of force by police.

Authorities had tried to prevent protesters from advancing from Maitighar toward New Baneshwor, which triggered direct confrontations. The area remains tense, with security forces deployed and protesters continuing to gather and raise slogans against the government.