Former Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli rejects claims of directing lethal force during youth-led unrest, as inquiry probes government failures.
Kathmandu’s inquiry commission questioned KP Sharma Oli on Sunday, January 6, 2026, over Nepal Gen Z protests that killed 77 people in September 2025. The former prime minister denied ordering Nepal police firing on demonstrators. He submitted a written statement amid ongoing probes. This development underscores accountability challenges in Nepal. It reflects broader South Asian concerns about state responses to youth dissent and allegations of corruption.
KP Oli Denial Amid Scrutiny
KP Sharma Oli appeared before the Nepal inquiry commission. He provided a written statement denying any order for the Nepal police to fire. Commission member Bigyan Raj Sharma confirmed receipt of the document.
Oli visited the commission’s office later that day. He faced questions from the National Human Rights Commission team led by Lily Thapa. The session lasted two and a half hours. Oli stated the prime minister does not issue direct orders to the police. He expressed respect for human rights and called for a fair inquiry. Thapa noted that Oli answered all queries regarding his roles as government head and chair of the National Security Council.
The KP Oli denial follows a summons issued at his residence. Restrictions barred him from leaving Kathmandu Valley. The commission lifted these after his statement was made. Similar curbs on former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak were lifted after questioning. The panel summoned Oli six days after Lekhak.
Nepal Police Firing: Casualties and Response
Nepal police firing claimed 19 lives on September 8, 2025. Protests escalated with arson and clashes. Total deaths reached 77 over two days.
Security forces used tear gas, water cannons, batons, and live ammunition. Witnesses reported indiscriminate shooting at protesters’ heads, chests, and abdomens. Injuries numbered over 2,000 nationwide. Hospitals treated hundreds for gunshot wounds. Three policemen died in mob attacks on September 9.
Protesters set fire to government buildings, including parliament and the prime minister’s residence. Property damage exceeded NPR 84 billion. The army deployed late on September 9. It restored order and detained looters. Curfews covered major cities.
Nepal Inquiry Commission: Progress and Mandate
The Nepal inquiry commission was formed on September 21, 2025. Led by former judge Gauri Bahadur Karki, it investigates deaths and damages resulting from the Nepal Gen Z protests. The three-member panel recorded statements from 78 officials. These include army chief Ashok Raj Sigdel and police leaders.
Its tenure extends to January 24, 2026. A comprehensive report is due within 15 days from January 6. The National Human Rights Commission is conducting a parallel investigation. Its preliminary report, released on September 26, 2025, blamed government misjudgment.
The document cited failure to anticipate the protest scale. It noted a decline in security morale following the initial violence. Both bodies examine the Nepal police firing and overall handling. Recommendations may include reforms to prevent recurrence.
Background: Roots of Nepal Gen Z Protests
Nepal Gen Z protests erupted against a social media ban on September 4, 2025. The government targeted 26 platforms for non-registration.
Critics viewed it as silencing anti-corruption voices. A “Nepo Kid” trend exposed nepotism among elites. Youth unemployment stood at 20 percent. Remittances formed 33 percent of GDP. The median age is 25, with high social media use.
Protests began peacefully on September 8 at Maitighar Mandala. Demonstrators demanded transparency and accountability. Escalation led to the home minister’s resignation that evening. The ban was lifted soon after.
Oli resigned on September 9 amid chaos. President Ram Chandra Poudel urged calm. Interim leader Sushila Karki took office on September 12. She dissolved parliament and set elections for March 2026.
The government pledged NPR 1 million in compensation per deceased family. It condemned destruction as premeditated. International observers noted disproportionate force. Pathologists confirmed 35 deaths from high-velocity gunshots. Protesters coordinated via Discord and VPNs. Over 100,000 joined online discussions.
Prison breaks freed thousands. The Army recovered looted weapons. These events marked Nepal’s first female interim prime minister. They highlighted generational demands for change.
What’s Next for Nepal Inquiry Commission
The Nepal inquiry commission will finalise its report soon. Findings may lead to prosecutions. Government reforms could address corruption and security protocols. Elections loom in March.
KP Oli’s denial sets the stage for debates on leadership accountability. Victims’ families seek justice. Ongoing reviews may shape policies on protests and inform the use of force. Nepal Gen Z protests remain a benchmark for youth-driven reform in the region.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 6th, 2026
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