Nepal: Sushila Karki New PM

Nepal has appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as its interim prime minister following days of violent anti-corruption protests that toppled the government.

Karki, 73, was sworn in after an agreement between President Ram Chandra Poudel and protest leaders, making her the first woman to lead the Himalayan nation. The appointment came in the wake of mass demonstrations that erupted after the government imposed—and later lifted—a ban on social media.

The ban ignited widespread anger, with protests escalating into deadly clashes that left more than 50 people dead. Demonstrators torched parliament and government offices in Kathmandu, forcing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign.

Parliament was officially dissolved on Friday, and fresh general elections are now scheduled for 5 March next year. Karki is expected to announce her cabinet soon, drawing support from younger generations, particularly student leaders from “Gen Z,” who see her as a symbol of integrity.

Her interim government faces daunting tasks: restoring public order, rebuilding damaged government infrastructure, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for the violence. Karki will also need to maintain the fragile trust of young protesters, while calming fears that Nepal’s young democracy and constitutional system could be destabilised.

As a respected figure with a clean image, Karki’s leadership is seen as a bridge between the state and protesters demanding real change. Her ability to balance reform with stability will determine how Nepal navigates this turbulent political transition.

Key Takeaways:

Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, 73, sworn in as Nepal’s interim prime minister.

Her appointment follows deadly anti-corruption protests and the resignation of PM KP Sharma Oli.

General elections are set for 5 March 2026 as Nepal seeks stability.

Sourced from:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c179qne0zw0o