Nepal Appoints Interim PM to Tackle Corruption Amid Youth Protests

Post by :

Photo:PTI

Nepal’s political scene has taken a dramatic turn as Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former Chief Justice, took charge as interim Prime Minister on Friday, September 12, 2025. Her appointment comes after intense mass protests led by the country’s young “Gen Z” population forced the previous government to resign.

Ms. Karki, who is widely respected for her independence and fairness, has been tasked with calming the unrest, restoring order, and addressing the protesters’ calls for a corruption-free government. She has promised to follow the demands of the youth, promising action on good governance and economic equality, with the goal of overseeing elections scheduled for March 5, 2026.

From the Courtroom to the Prime Minister’s Office

The unrest began on September 8, 2025, after the government imposed a social media ban. Demonstrations quickly escalated as protesters set fire to Parliament and other key government buildings, reflecting deep-rooted frustrations over Nepal’s economic challenges.

The World Bank reports that one in five young Nepalis aged 15-24 is unemployed, and the country’s GDP per capita is only $1,447. These economic hardships, combined with the perception of government corruption, fueled widespread anger among the youth.

“We must work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation,” Ms. Karki said in her first public address. “They are asking for an end to corruption, good governance, and equal opportunities. We must be determined to meet these demands.”

Paying Tribute to Victims

On Sunday, September 14, Ms. Karki held a minute’s silence for the lives lost during the unrest. At least 72 people died and 191 were injured over two days, including clashes with security forces and chaotic street demonstrations, according to government officials. This marks the worst unrest in Nepal since the decade-long civil war and the abolition of the monarchy in 2008.

The young protesters, many using the Discord app to organize, had already identified Ms. Karki as their preferred leader, demonstrating how technology played a key role in shaping the movement.

Challenges Ahead for the Interim Government

Ms. Karki’s government faces multiple challenges. Soldiers have been pulled back from the streets, but over 12,500 prisoners escaped from jails during the chaos remain at large, creating a complex security situation.

The Parliament has been dissolved, and the interim government has pledged to serve for no longer than six months, ensuring a smooth transition to elected leaders in March 2026. Ms. Karki stated: “We did not seek this position, but our responsibility is clear. We must complete our duties and ensure that the next Parliament and ministers take over peacefully.”

Regional Reactions and Support

Nepal’s neighbors have expressed support for the new government. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ms. Karki, emphasizing that New Delhi backs peace, progress, and prosperity in Nepal. Meanwhile, China also welcomed the new leadership, stating its intention to strengthen bilateral relations.

President Ram Chandra Paudel, who swore Ms. Karki into office, described the process as “very difficult, complicated, and grave” but emphasized the need for peace and stability ahead of elections.

The Role of Youth in Nepal’s Political Future

The rise of Gen Z as a political force in Nepal is notable. The youth-led protests, often coordinated through digital platforms, have highlighted issues like unemployment, corruption, and economic inequality. This movement shows that the younger generation is ready to challenge traditional political structures and demand accountability.

Ms. Karki, with her judicial background and reputation for fairness, now carries the responsibility of bridging the gap between protesters’ demands and political stability. Analysts believe her tenure will be crucial in restoring trust in governance and preparing the country for fair elections.

Nepal now stands at a critical crossroads. With youth activism reshaping politics and an interim government committed to tackling corruption, the next six months will be decisive for the nation’s stability, economy, and democratic future.