Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal's First Female PM, Tasked with Healing a Wounded Nation
In a historic moment for a nation grappling with a profound political crisis, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as the interim Prime Minister of Nepal, becoming the first woman to ever hold the country's top post. Her appointment comes in the direct aftermath of a violent, youth-led uprising that led to the collapse of the previous government and the dissolution of parliament. Seen as a neutral and respected figure, the 73-year-old jurist is now tasked with the monumental challenge of restoring order and guiding the deeply fractured nation toward fresh elections.
A Leader Forged in the Judiciary
Sushila Karki's ascension to the premiership is a direct result of the specific needs of a nation in turmoil. The "Gen Z Revolution," which was initially sparked by a controversial social media ban, quickly morphed into a massive anti-corruption movement that resulted in dozens of deaths and widespread destruction, including the torching of the parliament complex. In the ensuing political vacuum, there was a desperate need for a leader who could command respect from all sides and was untainted by the political establishment that the protesters had so forcefully rejected.
Karki, who served as the Chief Justice of Nepal's Supreme Court from 2016 to 2017, fits that role perfectly. During her tenure, she cultivated a formidable reputation for her integrity and her unwavering, tough stance against corruption. This track record made her a rare consensus candidate, one who was deemed acceptable to both the protest leaders and the traditional political parties, paving the way for her historic appointment.
The Immense Task Ahead
The challenges facing the new interim government are immense. Karki's primary mandate is to act as a stabilizing force, restoring a sense of calm and order after weeks of violent unrest. Her administration is also tasked with launching a credible investigation into the violence that occurred during the protests, a key demand of the movement's leaders.
The ultimate goal, however, is to prepare the country for new general elections, which have been scheduled for March 5, 2026. This will require navigating a complex and volatile political landscape, rebuilding trust in state institutions, and ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
Regional Support and a Message from India
The new leadership in Kathmandu has been met with cautious optimism from the international community. In a significant gesture of support, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his "heartfelt congratulations" to Karki upon her assumption of office. In a message posted in both Nepali and Hindi, he reaffirmed India's backing for its neighbor's stability. "India remains fully committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of our brothers and sisters in Nepal," PM Modi stated, sending a clear signal of support for the transition. This message from a key regional partner will be crucial as Sushila Karki embarks on the difficult but essential work of healing a nation and rebuilding its democracy from the ashes of a revolution.
