KATHMANDU, Nepal, Sept 12 – Nepal has appointed its first woman prime minister after days of violent unrest and the resignation of the previous leader. President Ram Chandra Poudel announced Friday that former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki will serve as interim prime minister, marking a significant milestone for the Himalayan nation that has faced years of political instability. Alongside her appointment, the president also dissolved parliament and scheduled new general elections for March 5.
The announcement came following a week of deadly protests in the capital city, Kathmandu, where tens of thousands of demonstrators clashed with security forces. The unrest, initially sparked by a government ban on social media platforms, quickly escalated into broader dissent against corruption, inequality, and what young protesters have labeled as entrenched political dynasties. According to police, at least 51 people have been killed in the violence, including both demonstrators and law enforcement officers.
Sushila Karki, 73, is widely respected for her uncompromising stance against corruption during her tenure as Nepal’s only female chief justice between 2016 and 2017. She was sworn in during a ceremony at the presidential residence on Friday, which was broadcast nationwide. Known for her reputation as a reformist within the judiciary, Karki often challenged government excesses and sought transparency in high-profile corruption cases. Her appointment is viewed as an attempt to restore confidence in governance during one of Nepal’s most turbulent moments in recent years.
Karki’s judicial career was not without controversy. In 2017, several lawmakers attempted to impeach her, accusing her of bias in a series of rulings that threatened powerful interests. The effort failed but was widely criticized at the time as an assault on judicial independence. Despite the political backlash she faced, Karki maintained her credibility among ordinary citizens who saw her as a symbol of accountability.
The resignation of former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli earlier this week came after protesters set fire to parliament and even attempted to storm the presidential residence. Oli fled his official residence on Tuesday night as Nepal’s army moved in to restore order. With protesters demanding sweeping changes and denouncing the dominance of long-entrenched political families, President Poudel began negotiations with the military and civil society leaders. These talks culminated in Karki’s appointment as a neutral caretaker capable of steering the country until fresh elections can be held.
The demonstrations, now called the “protest of Gen Z,” have become a defining moment for Nepal’s younger population. What began as outrage over a temporary ban on platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube—implemented after authorities claimed they had failed to comply with government oversight—soon grew into a broader movement. Youth activists accused the country’s leaders of favoring their own children and relatives with government jobs and privileges while leaving most of Nepal’s younger generation struggling with unemployment and economic hardship.
Although the government quickly reversed the social media ban, the anger did not subside. Protesters continued to rally in the streets, fueled by frustration with widening inequality and limited opportunities. Many participants voiced their resentment toward the political elite, often described in slogans as “nepo kids” who live in luxury while average families face rising costs of living.
The violence that followed has left deep scars on Kathmandu. Government buildings, businesses, and even parts of the presidential compound were set ablaze. Security forces responded with tear gas and live ammunition, which contributed to the high number of casualties. Three police officers were among the dead, and several prisoners attempting to escape during the chaos were also killed.
In response to the crisis, Nepal’s military imposed a strict curfew beginning Tuesday night. Residents have been allowed outside for only a few hours daily to purchase food and essentials, while soldiers patrol the streets to prevent further clashes. Although the streets of Kathmandu remain tense and largely deserted, the announcement of an interim government has temporarily eased confrontations.
For many in Nepal, the appointment of Karki represents both a symbolic and practical change. Her reputation for integrity has raised hopes that she can oversee a peaceful transition to elections while calming public anger. Analysts note that her independence from the traditional political class could prove crucial in regaining public trust. However, challenges remain immense. She must navigate a deeply divided society, restore order, and prepare the nation for elections in less than six months.
The March elections are expected to become a pivotal moment for Nepal’s democracy, which has faced repeated disruptions since the abolition of its monarchy in 2008. The country has struggled with coalition governments, shifting alliances, and frequent leadership changes. Now, with much of the youth disillusioned by politics, the upcoming vote will likely test whether the new generation can reshape Nepal’s political future.
As of Friday evening, Kathmandu remained under heavy military presence, with armored vehicles stationed across the capital. Though the violence has quieted, uncertainty continues to hang over Nepal. Families of those killed in the clashes have demanded accountability, while activists vow to keep pushing for reforms.