Nepal has reached a pivotal moment in its history with the appointment of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister. This move comes after days of violent demonstrations that led to Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigning and put the nation’s stability at risk.
Karki’s swearing-in at the President’s residence marked an immediate response to the country’s most severe political crisis in over a decade.
The Gen Z-led protests that forced the change were sparked by the government’s attempt to ban social media platforms but quickly accelerated into broad demands for anti-corruption and systemic reform.
Over 51 people have died, and more than 1,300 have been injured, making these protests the deadliest tensions in recent Nepali memory.
How Did Nepal’s Political Crisis Unfold?
On September 8, the Nepalese government imposed a ban on social media, aiming to quell unrest and misinformation. Instead, the measure ignited mass protests, particularly among the youth.
Demonstrators set fire to the Parliament building and stormed politicians’ homes. With mounting casualties and disruptions to everyday life, PM K.P. Sharma Oli stepped down, and power negotiations began in Kathmandu.
President Ram Chandra Poudel, along with the Army Chief and the Gen Z protest leaders, held emergency talks amid widespread violence.
The dissolution of Parliament that coincided with Sushila Karki’s appointment was a core demand of the youth movement, signaling a break with Nepal’s troubled political past.
Did you know?
Nepal has not seen a female head of government since its founding, making Sushila Karki’s appointment a historic first.
Who Is Sushila Karki, and Why Was She Chosen?
At 73, Sushila Karki is recognized for her integrity and commitment to judicial transparency during her tenure as Chief Justice. She emerged as a neutral figure amid intense negotiations, winning the backing of both the youth alliance and political power brokers.
Online polls and public endorsements, including support from Kathmandu’s mayor, gave her a clear mandate to lead the country through transition.
Her appointment is considered a victory for gender representation in a nation where female leadership has been elusive. Karki’s well-respected anti-corruption stance and fairness, praised by many protesters, set her apart as best suited for the job.
What Sparked the Generation Z Uprising?
The immediate catalyst was a sweeping ban on popular social media networks, perceived by the youth as an attempt to silence dissent and restrict freedoms.
With 20 percent youth unemployment and daily migrations of over 2,000 young Nepalis seeking work abroad, frustration among the next generation had reached a boiling point.
Protesters, mobilized by online campaigns, demanded transparency, an end to political privilege, and restoration of civil liberties.
The younger generation’s anger over “nepo kids” and political corruption translated into coordinated actions that rapidly undermined the government’s legitimacy, causing the collapse of traditional power structures.
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How Did the Violence Affect Nepal’s Governance?
The Ministry of Health and Population confirmed a death toll of 51, including three police officers and an Indian woman killed in a hotel fire. Over 1,300 people were injured, and nearly 17,000 inmates escaped correctional facilities amid the chaos.
With curfews in place, the army continues to patrol major regions, and some roads leading to Parliament remain blocked as shops cautiously reopen.
People view the dissolution of Parliament and Sushila Karki's appointment as crucial steps toward lowering violence and restoring confidence. Military intervention and emergency measures remain ongoing, but leaders hope for a rapid de-escalation under the interim government.
Is Nepal Heading Toward Stability or Further Turmoil?
Nepal is at a critical juncture. With a widely respected female leader, many citizens hope for renewed efforts to combat corruption and address economic inequality.
However, sustaining calm and enacting reforms will depend on continuous support from the public and transparency by authorities.
Global observers are watching closely to see whether Nepal can transition smoothly or whether further unrest will erupt.
As Sushila Karki begins her term, the coming weeks will test Nepal’s ability to heal from violence and foster lasting stability.
The appointment is being celebrated as a rare triumph for democratic change amid adversity, though much remains uncertain.
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