Nepal’s Former Prime Minister Denies Ordering Police Fire Amid Deadly Protests

Nepal’s Former Prime Minister Denies Ordering Police Fire Amid Deadly Protests
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Nepal’s deposed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli denied that his government ordered police to open fire on protesters during recent unrest that left at least 73 people dead, Arab News reported. In his first public statement since stepping down last Tuesday, Oli attributed the violence to “infiltrators” who incited bloodshed during youth-led protests that began on September 8.

The demonstrations initially erupted over a brief social media ban but quickly grew into wider anger against corruption and economic hardships. On the first day, at least 19 people were killed in a crackdown.

Oli stated on Facebook that his government did not issue orders to target protesters and called for an investigation into the use of automatic weapons, which he said the police did not possess. He hinted at a possible conspiracy behind the violence but offered no further details.

During the unrest, mobs attacked government offices, set fire to a hotel, and targeted symbols of authority, including Oli’s residence. Some protesters were seen carrying automatic rifles.

Oli has remained out of public view since his removal, reportedly under military protection. His successor, Prime Minister Sushila Karki, has pledged to restore order and address demands for a corruption-free future ahead of elections in six months.