Political resignation in Nepal as interior minister steps down amidst violent protests resulting in nearly 20 fatalities.

In a significant development in Nepal's political landscape, the Minister of Home Affairs, Rasmesh Lekhak, tendered his resignation to Prime Minister Sharma Oli during a cabinet meeting. The resignation comes in the wake of protests in Kathmandu over the blocking of major social media networks, which resulted in nearly 20 deaths and over 400 injuries.

Lekhak cited moral reasons for his decision, expressing concern over the tragic loss of lives due to the social media blockage. His resignation follows a series of demands from various political parties, including the centrist Independent National Party (RSP), who have accused the current cabinet of losing its legitimacy.

The RSP has also called for the resignation of Prime Minister Oli and early elections. The secretary-generals of the Nepalese Congress, Gagan Thapa and Bishwa Prakash Sharma, had previously demanded Lekhak's resignation. The RSP's secretary-general, Kabindra Burlakoti, has further called for a high-level judicial inquiry commission to investigate the government's handling of the protests.

Protesters in Nepal are gathering in urban areas, primarily demonstrating against corruption and the failure of the political class. Kabindra Burlakoti has warned of massive resistance against the current authoritarian regime in Nepal and accused the government of prolonging chaos, while also expressing growing anger among the population.

In response, authorities in Nepal have restricted gatherings and reduced movement in some areas to prevent clashes. The transitional government, led by a caretaker prime minister, was announced following the resignations of Lekhak and Prime Minister Oli. By September 14, 2025, a female interim leader, likely Sher Bahadur Deuba or another appointed transitional figure, was announced to lead the government until the next elections in March 2026.

However, it is not yet clear who the exact successor of Pushpa Kamal Dahal will be. The US Open final between Alcaraz and Sinner, the situation in Ukraine, Kellogg's warning, the Russian attack on the government headquarters, the situation in Gaza including Netanyahu's accusations against Hamas, and any news related to Pope Leo XIV or Carlo Acutis were not reported in this context.

Political resignation in Nepal as interior minister steps down amidst violent protests resulting in nearly 20 fatalities.