September 19, 2025/Midnight
Erie, PA.– On Sept. 9 Nepali citizens overthrew their government, after what many considered decades of government corruption coming to a boiling point. This followed the deaths of 22 Nepalis who were killed during nationwide protests.
What many deem to be the breaking point for the people of Nepal was the government’s blocking of mostly western social media sites like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. This move was considered unjust and was condemned by human rights activists.
The country has also seen economic struggles, especially after the abolishment of their 239–year long monarchy in 2008, leading to many government changes. In fact, 20.8% of Nepalis ages 15–24 were unemployed as stated by the World Bank and much of the economy relies on money sent home from Nepalis living abroad. According to the Asian Development Bank, 20.3% of Nepalis were living below the poverty line in 2022.
On Sept. 4, a predominately Gen Z group took to the streets to protest the political corruption. As tensions rose, police began to fire at the crowd. This resulted in the estimated deaths of 22 people, with hundreds more injured, CNN reported.
On Sept. 5 smoke could be seen from the capital, which had been set ablaze during the protests.
One video shows the now former finance minister being chased through the streets before having parts of his clothes stripped and being run into a river.
That same day Prime Minster KP Sharma Oli resigned from his position, in a letter to Nepal.
Shortly after, video was captured of protestors reportedly breaking into his private residence and damaging property.
At Gannon, to honor the lives lost in the demonstrations the Nepalese Student Association held a candlelight ceremony to reflect and honor the memories of the victims. It was held in the Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel, where staff and students were invited to attend. Those who attended laid down candles around a banner and the flag of Nepal.
As of Sept. 12, Nepal has elected a temporary prime minster, Sushila Karki. The vote was brought on by predominantly Gen Z voters who came together and ran a Discord poll on who would bring about the most positive change. She is also the nation’s first female prime minister.
The newly elected Nepali government is planning to hold elections for their next prime minister in March 2026.
