From Bangladesh 2024 to Nepal 2025: Gen Z Movements Force Leaders to Quit

Nepal plunged into political upheaval on September 9, 2025, as Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned following weeks of massive nationwide protests led primarily by Gen Z activists. The development comes just a year after a similar youth-led uprising in Bangladesh forced Sheikh Hasina to step down, sparking inevitable comparisons between the two neighbouring nations.

Oli Steps Down Amid Escalating Protests

KP Sharma Oli tendered his resignation after violent clashes and sustained demonstrations across Kathmandu and other cities. Reports suggest he may attempt to flee the country under mounting pressure, echoing Sheikh Hasina's flight to India after her resignation in August 2024.

Oli's departure follows months of unrest that began over restrictions on social media platforms but soon evolved into a broad anti-corruption movement. Hashtags such as #NepoKids gained traction, targeting political families' privileged lifestyles and fuelling public resentment.

Bangladesh's Quota Protests a Precedent

Bangladesh's crisis last year was triggered by anger over a quota system favouring descendants of freedom fighters. The movement, driven by a student group called Students Against Discrimination, grew into a nationwide campaign that toppled Sheikh Hasina.

Similarly, Nepal's movement began with a seemingly narrow issue-the social media ban-but rapidly snowballed into a generational revolt against entrenched corruption and political elitism.

Youth as the Driving Force

In both Bangladesh and Nepal, the protests were dominated by young people, especially students. Social media played a pivotal role in mobilising crowds and amplifying voices against governments accused of clinging to outdated power structures.

Crackdowns That Backfired

In both Dhaka and Kathmandu, state attempts at suppression-including violent crackdowns that left several protesters dead-only strengthened the movements. Rather than restoring order, the excessive use of force intensified demands for accountability and leadership change.

Leaders Forced Into Exile

Parallels extend even to the fate of the ousted leaders. Sheikh Hasina fled to India amid chaos in August 2024. KP Sharma Oli, according to emerging reports, is now planning to seek refuge abroad, possibly in Dubai, as Nepal reels from the political vacuum.

Regional Implications

Observers say the collapse of two entrenched leaders within a year points to a larger generational shift across South Asia, where young citizens are demanding transparency, fairness, and an end to dynastic privilege.

For Nepal, Oli's resignation marks a historic turning point. But with President Ram Chandra Poudel also stepping down, the political future of the Himalayan republic remains deeply uncertain.