In a dramatic turn of events, Nepalese Prime Minister KPSharma Oli resigned Tuesday as mass anti-government protests rocked the capital for a second consecutive day, leaving the nation’s political future uncertain and its streets in flames.

The resignation came just one day after security forces opened fire on demonstrators mostly young protesters killing at least 19. The violence has pushed the country into one of its worst political crises in over a decade.

The unrest was triggered by widespread outrage over official corruption, entrenched inequality, and, most recently, a government-imposed ban on major social media platforms including WhatsApp and Instagram. The controversial restriction, announced over the weekend, was abruptly lifted early Tuesday in a failed attempt to calm tensions.

Authorities also declared a citywide curfew to prevent further unrest. It did little to stop demonstrators, who stormed Kathmandu’s main administrative compound which houses the prime minister’s office and torched it along with homes of senior political leaders, party offices, police stations, and other government buildings.

Despite heavy deployment, security forces appeared overwhelmed and unable to control the surging crowds or protect key institutions.

The resignations of Oli and several lawmakers signal a deepening collapse of the ruling coalition. As Nepal braces for what could become a prolonged period of instability, opposition figures and protest leaders are calling for sweeping reforms and justice for those killed during the crackdown.

Erizia Rubyjeana 

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