Sushila Karki To Take Oath As Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Amidst Gen-Z Protests

Former Chief Justice of Nepal, Sushila Karki, is set to assume office as head of the interim government, with the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for 8:45 PM (local time) on Friday at the President’s residence, Sheetal Niwas, according to sources at the President’s Office.

Karki’s appointment comes in the wake of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation, prompted by mounting Gen-Z-led protests across the country.

The demonstrations, demanding accountability, constitutional reform, and an end to political instability, have shaken Nepal’s political establishment.

A Trailblazer in Nepal’s Judiciary

Sushila Karki, who served as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice from July 2016 to June 2017, has earned wide respect for her integrity and for delivering landmark rulings on transitional justice and electoral matters.

Beginning her legal career in 1979, she became a senior advocate in 2007 and joined the Supreme Court bench in 2009.

Her reputation for impartiality and courage earned her the support of the Gen-Z movement, which has been a driving force behind the current wave of political change.

Protesters and civic leaders view her as a symbol of judicial credibility and ethical governance.

Born on 7 June 1952 in Biratnagar, Karki has built a strong academic background in political science and law, and many regard her as a steady hand to lead the nation during this transitional period.

In a dramatic political turn, protesters forced the dissolution of Nepal’s Parliament earlier this week, following sustained demonstrations and Oli’s departure.

While the dissolution fulfilled a key demand of protest leaders, it has stirred controversy, with some political parties questioning its legality and civil society calling for constitutional adherence.

The youth-led movement has demanded sweeping reforms, including amendments to the Constitution to reflect the voice of the people, transparency in governance, and systemic accountability.

Joint Statement Condemns Violence; Urges Rule of Law

In a joint statement issued on Friday, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chairperson of the National Assembly expressed condolences for the loss of life during the protests on Bhadra 23 and 24, 2082 (Nepali calendar).

They also condemned the widespread arson and vandalism, including attacks on the Federal Parliament Building, Secretariat, media outlets, and government offices.

The statement highlighted that the recent events caused irreparable damage to national infrastructure and historical records, and urged state mechanisms to provide medical support for the injured.

In light of the national crisis, the President has reportedly taken initiatives to navigate a constitutional path forward, emphasising the rule of law, sovereignty, and national unity.

The leadership reiterated the importance of not deviating from constitutional principles during this turbulent transition.

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