Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal's First Female Prime Minister Amidst Unprecedented Protests

Wed Oct 22 2025 07:37:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following a wave of anti-corruption protests that led to government upheaval, Sushila Karki has been appointed as Nepal's first female Prime Minister. Her leadership comes during a critical juncture as the country grapples with unrest and calls for systemic change.

Sushila Karki has assumed the role of Nepal's interim Prime Minister following deadly protests that recently erupted in the country. Karki, formerly the chief justice, is celebrated for her integrity and has been tasked with restoring order while addressing deeper political discontent. This appointment reflects the demands of a new generation seeking change in Nepal's political landscape.

Nepal's former Supreme Court chief justice Sushila Karki has become the country's interim prime minister after deadly anti-corruption protests ousted the government.

The 73-year-old was sworn in during a brief ceremony, becoming the first woman to lead the impoverished Himalayan nation after a deal was reached with protest leaders.

More than 50 people were killed in clashes with riot police during this week's mass protests sparked by a ban on social media platforms.

The ban was lifted on Monday - but by then protests had swelled into a mass movement. Angry crowds set fire to parliament and government buildings in the capital Kathmandu on Tuesday, forcing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to resign.

Earlier on Friday, President Ram Chandra Poudel's press adviser had confirmed to the BBC that Karki would take the oath of office that evening. The agreement between the president and the protest leaders was reached after days of consultations, with legal experts also involved.

Parliament was dissolved late on Friday, with general elections scheduled for March 5 next year. Karki is expected to appoint ministers to her cabinet within a few days and is widely regarded as having a clean image, having garnered support from the younger 'Gen Z' movement.

Karki's cabinet will face multiple challenges, from restoring law and order, to reconstructing parliament, and addressing demands for justice following the violence. Her appointment is seen as a compromise brokered by Nepal's army chief, reflecting the urgency for change embraced by the Gen Z supporters.

The protests were initially triggered by the government's decision to ban 26 social media platforms, leading to broader grievances against political corruption and elitism. As the situation stabilizes, Karki's leadership will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of Nepal's current political landscape.