Nepal: Detention of former Prime Minister extended in deadly crackdown case

Nepalese authorities have again extended the detention of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, as part of an investigation into the violent crackdown on protests in 2025. This decision comes as investigations continue to establish responsibility for the events, which left at least 76 people dead.

Arrested in late March along with his former Interior Minister, Ramesh Lekhak, the ex-prime minister is suspected of having played a role in managing the protests that led to the use of force by the authorities. The two men have not yet been formally charged and deny any involvement in the violence.

Initially detained for five days, KP Sharma Oli's custody has already been extended several times by the courts, which believe they need more time to continue interrogations and analyze the case file. A further two-day extension was granted in early April by a court in Kathmandu.

The 74-year-old former leader is currently hospitalized for health problems, including heart and kidney issues, and remains under police guard. He appeared in court via video conference, while his lawyers are challenging the legality of his arrest.

This case is taking place against a backdrop of particularly tense political conditions in Nepal, marked by the massive protests of September 2025 that led to the fall of Oli's government. A commission of inquiry has recommended prosecution of several officials for "criminal negligence," concluding that they failed to prevent security forces from opening fire on protesters.

The arrest of the former Prime Minister has deeply divided the political class and public opinion. His supporters denounce a politically motivated decision driven by a spirit of revenge, while the authorities maintain that it is a necessary step to bring justice to the victims and restore confidence in the institutions.