Kathmandu and Jakarta, September 10, 2025 – Two Asian nations, Nepal and Indonesia, are facing significant political unrest as mass protests driven by public discontent have led to violence, resignations, and calls for systemic change. The developments, unfolding in recent days, highlight deep-seated frustrations over governance, corruption, and economic challenges in these countries.
In Nepal, the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli on September 9 followed violent protests that left at least 19 dead and over 300 injured. The unrest began when the government imposed a ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp, citing non-compliance with registration requirements. Critics viewed the ban as an attempt to curb dissent, sparking outrage among younger generations, particularly Gen Z. Protesters, defying curfews, set fire to government buildings, including the parliament, and targeted residences of prominent leaders like President Ramchandra Paudel and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. The Nepali Army has been deployed to restore order, with 27 arrests reported for looting and arson. The government lifted the social media ban late Monday, but protests continued, fueled by allegations of corruption and nepotism. Constitutional experts warn of a potential political vacuum unless a consensus government is formed, with the military currently seen as a stabilizing force.
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, mass protests have challenged President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, which has been in power for less than a year. The demonstrations, initially sparked by lawmakers’ spending privileges, escalated after a police vehicle fatally struck a motorcycle taxi driver, leading to riots and looting. At least eight people have died, with over 1,200 detained and 700 injured nationwide. Protesters, primarily students, have set fire to government offices and parliament buildings in cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Makassar. The governor estimates damages at $3.4 million. Despite heavy military presence and police checkpoints, demonstrations persist, reflecting broader dissatisfaction with low wages, unemployment, and government accountability. Subianto reshuffled his cabinet, replacing five ministers, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, in an attempt to quell unrest.
Both nations face complex challenges as public anger underscores demands for transparency and economic opportunity. In Nepal, the protests echo similar youth-led movements in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, raising questions about governance in South Asia. In Indonesia, the unrest tests Subianto’s leadership in the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, a key player in regional stability. As events unfold, the international community watches closely, with the United Nations urging restraint and dialogue in Nepal and analysts noting the broader implications for Asia’s political landscape.