Nepal Gen Z Protest Inquiry Panel to Call KP Oli as Deadline Nears

With less than two weeks remaining before its mandate expires, the commission investigating the deaths and damage linked to the September 8–9 Gen Z protests has still not questioned the country’s senior political leaders who were in office at the time of the unrest.

However, a member of the inquiry panel told The Kathmandu Post that preparations are underway to call former prime minister KP Sharma Oli and former home minister Ramesh Lekhak for questioning.

Top Leaders Yet to Be Questioned

So far, neither Oli nor Lekhak has appeared before the commission, despite both holding key positions when security forces carried out the crackdown on demonstrators. According to a panel member, this situation is expected to change soon as the probe enters its final stage.

About the Probe Commission

The three-member commission, chaired by former Special Court chief Gauri Bahadur Karki, was established on September 21 by the interim government led by Sushila Karki. It was tasked with completing its investigation and submitting a report within three months, a deadline that is now rapidly approaching.

Possible Extension on the Table

Speaking to The Kathmandu Post, commission member Bishweshwar Prasad Bhandari acknowledged that the panel’s tenure is nearing completion. He confirmed that steps are being taken to summon the former prime minister and home minister.

Bhandari also indicated that the commission may request an extension if it is unable to finish its work within the allotted time. He emphasized that legal provisions prevent the panel from revealing details of the investigation before it formally concludes.

“We are legally bound not to disclose information related to the probe until the investigation is completed,” he said.