Nepal’s first female prime minister takes office amidst turmoil

Nepal witnessed a historic moment on Sunday, September 14, 2025, when Sushila Karki officially took charge as the country’s interim prime minister. She had been sworn in a day earlier, on Saturday, following the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Karki’s assumption of office marks a significant turning point in Nepal’s political journey, as she becomes the first woman to lead the country.

#WATCH | Kathmandu: Nepal's former Chief Justice, Sushila Karki, takes charge as the interim Prime

Minister of the country. pic.twitter.com/GV3NwZaQBb

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2025

A profile on Sushila Karki

Sushila Karki, a former Chief Justice of Nepal, is widely respected for her integrity and anti-corruption stance. Having served at the helm of Nepal’s judiciary, she earned recognition for promoting transparency and justice.

Her appointment as interim prime minister comes at a time when the country is grappling with political instability and civil unrest.

Background of the crisis

The unrest that led to Karki’s appointment began earlier this month when the government imposed a ban on popular social media platforms, citing national security concerns.

The move triggered widespread protests, particularly among youth groups who perceived it as an attack on their freedoms.

The protests escalated quickly with a focus on corruption, leading to violent clashes with security forces.

By September 9, at least 51 people had lost their lives, and over 1,300 were injured amid the unrest. The government’s response drew severe criticism, and Prime Minister Oli faced mounting pressure.

On September 9, he resigned, paving the way for the formation of an interim government. His resignation came after he and several ministers were heckled and forced to confront public outrage.

Appointment of Sushila Karki

After intense consultations involving the president, military leadership, and protest representatives, Karki was selected to lead the interim administration. President Ramchandra Paudel confirmed her appointment on September 12.

Karki’s judicial background and reformist image made her a widely acceptable candidate for leading the country through turbulent times.

PM Modi’s reaction

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Karki, calling her appointment a “new dawn” for Nepal. Modi expressed hope that her leadership would promote peace and stability in the region and emphasised the deep cultural and historical bonds between India and Nepal. He also reaffirmed India’s support for Nepal’s democratic transition.

Call for tourism revival

The recent unrest severely affected Nepal’s tourism sector, causing estimated losses exceeding NPR 25 billion. In light of this, the interim government urged citizens and expatriates to return and help rebuild the industry, which plays a critical role in the country’s economy.

Looking ahead

The cabinet expansion is expected to happen today, as the interim government looks to finalise key appointments and restore administrative functions.

With the upcoming elections scheduled for March 5, 2026, Karki’s leadership will be a test of Nepal’s ability to restore democracy and national unity. The nation’s focus now turns to how effectively her administration can address grievances, rebuild institutions, and prepare for a peaceful electoral process.

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