In a dramatic escalation of Nepal’s ongoing political turmoil, protesters – largely led by Gen Z demonstrators stormed Nakkhu Prison in Kathmandu and freed former Deputy Prime Minister and Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane, amid a sweeping prison break that saw over 1,500 inmates reportedly escape.
The unrest, triggered by the government’s controversial social media blackout, has intensified across the country, culminating in widespread anti-government demonstrations and the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
According to news outlet Khabarhub, Lamichhane was released Tuesday afternoon as protesters breached prison security during a rally in the capital.
It is speculated that his release was intended to safeguard other prisoners amid the unrest.
Lamichhane had been in custody over allegations linked to a cooperative savings scam — a case that had become a political flashpoint in recent weeks. Shortly after his release, he addressed a crowd through a live video posted by RSP central member Krantishikha Dhital, thanking supporters and calling for peaceful resistance.
His wife, Nikita Paudel, was seen arriving at the prison to escort him, as thousands of supporters gathered outside, chanting slogans and celebrating his freedom. Lamichhane waved to the crowd in a symbolic appearance that quickly went viral on Nepali social media, shortly after the partial lifting of the platform ban.
