Sushila Karki Appointed as Nepal’s First Female Interim Prime Minister Amidst Youth-Led Protests
In a historic turn of events, Sushila Karki has been appointed as Nepal’s interim prime minister, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold this position in the country. Her appointment comes in the wake of intense youth-led protests against political corruption, which have resulted in tragic violence and a call for change in the nation’s leadership.
Background of the Appointment
The announcement of Karki’s appointment was made by President Ramchandra Poudel on September 12, following the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The protests, which erupted on September 8, were fueled by widespread discontent among the youth regarding corruption and the lavish lifestyles of government officials’ children, often referred to as “Nepo kids.” The protests escalated into violence, leading to a tragic death toll of at least 51 individuals, as reported by police sources.
Karki, 73, has a long and distinguished career in law and public service. Born in Biratnagar in 1952, she pursued her education in law and became the first female chief justice of Nepal in 2016. Her tenure was marked by significant challenges, including a politically motivated impeachment attempt in 2017, which was ultimately dropped after international scrutiny.
The Protests: A Catalyst for Change
The protests that led to Karki’s appointment were not merely spontaneous outbursts of anger; they represented a culmination of frustrations that have been brewing for years. Young people across Nepal took to the streets, demanding accountability and transparency from their leaders. The government’s decision to ban over 20 social media platforms just days before the protests only intensified the public’s outrage.
As the protests grew, demonstrators clashed with security forces, leading to a violent crackdown that resulted in numerous casualties. The situation escalated to the point where the army was deployed to restore order, and many government officials were evacuated for their safety. Amidst this chaos, Karki emerged as a figure of hope, chosen by the protesters themselves through a democratic process facilitated via the messaging app Discord.
Who is Sushila Karki?
Karki’s journey to the prime ministership is a testament to her resilience and commitment to justice. After completing her law degree at Tribhuvan University, she began her career as a lawyer and later transitioned into academia, teaching law at Mahendra Multiple Campus. Her appointment as chief justice in 2016 was groundbreaking, as she became the first woman to hold this position in Nepal’s history.
Despite facing significant challenges during her tenure as chief justice, including the impeachment motion that sought to undermine her authority, Karki’s reputation for integrity and resistance to corruption has made her a respected figure among the youth. Her previous statements about refusing to comply with political pressures have resonated with a generation eager for change.
The Youth’s Choice: Why Karki?
The decision to appoint Karki as interim prime minister, despite her age, reflects a deeper desire among the youth for trustworthy leadership. Anish Ghimre, a journalist with the Kathmandu Post, noted that the younger generation conducted thorough research on Karki’s background and found her commitment to integrity appealing. This sentiment was echoed by Yog Raj Lamichhane, an assistant professor at Pokhara University, who emphasized that Karki’s image as a symbol of resistance against corruption played a significant role in her selection.
Karki herself acknowledged the generational divide in her first public remarks, stating, “We have to work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation.” Her commitment to addressing the youth’s demands for good governance and economic equality has been met with cautious optimism.
Initial Actions and Challenges Ahead
Since taking office, Karki has wasted no time in forming her cabinet, appointing key ministers to oversee critical portfolios such as home affairs, finance, and energy. However, the dissolution of parliament poses significant challenges for her administration. With no legislative body in place, passing new laws or implementing reforms will be a daunting task.
Experts have pointed out that while the change in leadership is a step forward, the interim government must prioritize concrete actions against corruption to meet the expectations of the youth. Lamichhane emphasized the need for timely elections and effective governance to address the pressing issues facing the nation.
Conclusion
Sushila Karki’s appointment as Nepal’s first female interim prime minister represents a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape. As she navigates the complexities of her role amidst ongoing challenges, her leadership will be closely scrutinized by a generation eager for change. The youth’s call for accountability and transparency has resonated deeply, and Karki’s ability to respond to these demands will be crucial in shaping Nepal’s future. As the nation looks ahead to elections scheduled for March 2026, the hope is that Karki’s tenure will lay the groundwork for a more equitable and just society.
