New Leadership in Nepal: Interim PM Sushila Karki's Six-Month Challenge

Tue Oct 21 2025 21:48:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Nepal's newly-appointed interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki, vows to lead the country for just six months following deadly protests that led to her appointment. Karki aims to restore order and respond to the demands of the Gen Z movement.

Sushila Karki has been sworn in as Nepal's interim Prime Minister, committing to a six-month term. Her leadership follows the unrest and anti-corruption protests that led to the previous government's ousting. Karki highlights her intent to implement changes demanded by Nepal's youth, including tackling corruption and promoting economic equality. She faces critical tasks ahead, such as restoring law and order and rebuilding damaged infrastructure amidst a climate of urgency and anticipation for genuine political change.

Nepal's newly-appointed interim prime minister says she will be in the post for no longer than six months.

I did not wish for this job. It was after voices from the streets that I was compelled to accept, Sushila Karki said, speaking for the first time since being sworn into office on Friday. She mentioned she would hand over to the new government that will emerge after elections on 5 March next year.

Karki's appointment comes after more than 70 people lost their lives during anti-corruption protests that ousted the previous government.

During her swearing-in, agreed upon with protest leaders from the Gen Z movement, she stated, We have to work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation. Karki noted that this group is demanding an end to corruption, good governance, and economic equality.

The mass protests, which were sparked by a ban on social media platforms, escalated into chaos as politicians’ homes were vandalized and parliament was set on fire. The death toll from this unrest has reached 72, including three police personnel.

Karki expressed her dismay at the violence, stating, I feel ashamed. If they were Nepalis who destroyed these essential structures, how can they be called Nepalis?

Known for her clean image, Karki is a former Supreme Court chief justice. However, she has faced controversy in her past, including an impeachment incident during her nearly 11-month tenure as chief justice.

Facing multiple challenges ahead, Karki and her cabinet must restore law and order, rebuild parliament, and address the concerns of the Gen Z protesters who are eager for change, as well as those fearing for the future of Nepal's young democracy and constitutional order.