Nepal Appoints First Female Prime Minister Amidst Unrest, Sushila Karki Takes Interim Helm

Kathmandu, Nepal – Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former Supreme Court chief justice, has been sworn in as Nepal's interim Prime Minister, marking a historic moment as the nation's first female head of government. Her appointment on September 12, 2025, follows a period of intense political turmoil and deadly anti-corruption protests that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The unrest, which saw over 50 fatalities, was initially sparked by a government ban on social media platforms but quickly escalated into a broader movement against political elite and alleged corruption.

Karki's selection as interim leader emerged from a consensus reached after days of consultations involving President Ramchandra Paudel, the Nepal Army chief, and representatives of the "Gen Z"-led youth protests. Widely respected for her integrity, Karki is seen as a unifying figure to navigate the country through its current crisis. Her cabinet is expected to address critical challenges including restoring law and order, reconstructing damaged government buildings, and reassuring a populace demanding change.

The protests, described as the most severe in decades, gained momentum despite the social media ban being lifted. Demonstrators set fire to parliament and other government buildings in Kathmandu, highlighting deep-seated public discontent. India has welcomed the formation of the new interim government, expressing hope for peace and stability in the neighboring democracy.

With Parliament dissolved, Karki's administration is tasked with preparing for general elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. The interim Prime Minister's immediate agenda includes appointing her cabinet and addressing the aftermath of the protests, which also inflicted significant financial damage, with the hotel industry alone reporting losses exceeding 25 billion Nepalese rupees. Her leadership is anticipated to focus on upholding constitutionalism and steering Nepal towards a more stable future.