In a historic move, Nepal’s former Chief Justice, Sushila Karki, has been appointed as the country’s interim prime minister following a wave of deadly protests that have rocked the nation, claiming at least 51 lives and injuring more than 1,300 people. The announcement was made on Friday by President Ramchandra Paudel’s office, marking a significant milestone as Karki becomes Nepal’s first female head of government. The 73-year-old was sworn in shortly after the announcement, stepping into a role that places her at the forefront of navigating the country through one of its most turbulent periods in recent history.
A Credible and Courageous Leader
Karki, a trailblazer in Nepal’s judicial and political landscape, is widely regarded as a figure of integrity and resilience. As the first woman to serve as Chief Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court, she has a storied career marked by bold decisions and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her appointment as interim prime minister has been met with widespread approval from those who view her as a stabilizing force in a time of crisis.
“She is a credible choice to lead the interim government,” said Anil Kumar Sinha, a former Supreme Court justice who worked alongside Karki. “Her integrity has never been in doubt, and she is not someone who can be intimidated or easily influenced. She is courageous and not swayed by pressure.” Sinha’s remarks reflect the confidence that many in Nepal’s legal and political circles have in Karki’s ability to lead with impartiality and resolve.
Karki’s reputation as a fearless advocate for justice precedes her. Born in 1952 in Biratnagar, an industrial town in eastern Nepal, she pursued her education with determination, earning a degree in political science in India and later a law degree in Kathmandu. Her career as a lawyer began in 1979, and she quickly distinguished herself by taking on cases that others deemed too risky or controversial. Her commitment to upholding the rule of law has made her a respected figure in a country grappling with systemic issues such as corruption and political instability.
A Nation in Turmoil
The protests that precipitated Karki’s appointment have been some of the most violent in Nepal’s recent history. According to police spokesperson Binod Ghimire, the unrest has resulted in the deaths of at least 51 individuals, including 21 protesters, nine prisoners, three police officers, and 18 others whose identities or circumstances of death were not specified. Over 1,300 people have been injured as security forces struggled to maintain order amid widespread chaos.
The protests, driven largely by Nepal’s younger generation—often referred to as “Gen Z”—have been fueled by grievances over governance, corruption, and economic challenges. The intensity of the demonstrations has overwhelmed law enforcement, leading to clashes that have further escalated tensions. In addition to the loss of life, the unrest has led to significant disruptions, including the escape of more than 12,500 prisoners from multiple jails across the country. Ghimire noted that while some escapees have been recaptured, 12,533 remain at large, posing a significant challenge to authorities.
The escaped prisoners have added a layer of complexity to the crisis. Some of those who fled have reportedly attempted to cross the border into India, where Indian authorities have apprehended scores of fugitives. The situation has strained Nepal’s security apparatus, with the army stepping in to impose a curfew in an effort to restore order. The military has also recovered more than 100 firearms looted during the unrest, including automatic rifles brandished by some protesters, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Karki’s Appointment: A Response to Public Demand
Karki’s selection as interim prime minister was not a decision made in isolation. It came after consultations between President Paudel and constitutional experts, including one who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. The expert revealed that Karki’s appointment was in direct response to demands from the younger generation, particularly the Gen Z activists who have been at the forefront of the protests. “They [Gen Z] want [Karki]. This will happen today,” the expert said prior to the official announcement, underscoring the public’s trust in Karki’s ability to address their grievances.
Karki’s reputation as a principled and incorruptible leader likely played a significant role in her selection. Her tenure as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court was marked by landmark decisions that challenged the status quo and held powerful figures accountable. In 2012, she was one of two presiding judges who made history by sentencing a serving government minister to prison for corruption—a first for Nepal, where graft has long been a pervasive issue. The ruling sent shockwaves through the political establishment and cemented Karki’s reputation as a fearless jurist.
In 2017, Karki faced significant political pushback when the government attempted to impeach her after she overturned its choice for the chief of police. The United Nations condemned the impeachment effort as “politically motivated,” and the move was ultimately blocked. Karki retired from her position as Chief Justice later that year, but her legacy as a champion of judicial independence and accountability endured.
A Career Defined by Courage
Karki’s journey to becoming Nepal’s interim prime minister is a testament to her resilience and dedication to public service. Growing up in Biratnagar, she was exposed to the challenges of a rapidly changing society. Her academic pursuits took her to India, where she studied political science, before returning to Nepal to earn her law degree in Kathmandu. These formative years shaped her understanding of governance, justice, and the importance of institutional integrity.
As a lawyer, Karki quickly earned a reputation for taking on cases that others shied away from. Her willingness to challenge powerful interests and advocate for the marginalized set her apart in a legal system often plagued by inefficiency and corruption. Her ascent to the Supreme Court was a natural progression for someone of her caliber, and her tenure as Chief Justice was defined by bold rulings that sought to address systemic issues in Nepalese society.
One of Karki’s most notable contributions was her role in advancing the fight against corruption. The 2012 ruling that jailed a government minister was a watershed moment, signaling that no one was above the law. This decision, along with others, earned her both admiration and enmity. Her critics, particularly those in political circles, viewed her as a threat to their influence, while her supporters saw her as a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable Nepal.
The 2017 impeachment attempt was a stark reminder of the challenges Karki faced in her career. The government’s effort to remove her from office was widely seen as an attempt to curb her influence and protect entrenched interests. However, the public and international outcry, including from the United Nations, ensured that the impeachment did not succeed. Karki’s ability to withstand such pressure further solidified her reputation as a leader who could not be easily swayed or intimidated.
Challenges Ahead for Karki’s Interim Government
As interim prime minister, Karki faces a daunting task. The immediate priority is to restore order and address the grievances that sparked the protests. The scale of the unrest, combined with the mass prison escapes and the proliferation of looted firearms, presents significant security challenges. The army’s imposition of a curfew is a temporary measure, but long-term stability will require addressing the root causes of the protests, including widespread frustration with corruption, unemployment, and governance failures.
Karki’s background as a jurist may prove to be both an asset and a challenge in her new role. Her legal expertise and commitment to justice equip her to tackle systemic issues, but the demands of political leadership in a time of crisis will test her ability to navigate complex and often competing interests. Her lack of direct political experience may also be a point of contention for some, though her reputation for integrity and impartiality could help bridge divides.
The protests, led largely by Nepal’s youth, reflect a broader demand for systemic change. Karki’s appointment appears to be an acknowledgment of this demand, but her success will depend on her ability to engage with protesters, address their concerns, and restore public confidence in the government. The fact that her appointment was influenced by the demands of Gen Z activists suggests that she has a degree of public support, but maintaining that support will require tangible progress on key issues.
Regional and International Implications
The crisis in Nepal has also drawn attention from neighboring countries, particularly India, where authorities have apprehended fugitives attempting to cross the border. The porous border between Nepal and India has long been a challenge for both nations, particularly in times of unrest. The involvement of Indian border forces in apprehending escaped prisoners underscores the regional implications of Nepal’s crisis. Any further escalation could strain relations between the two countries or necessitate greater cooperation to address cross-border security concerns.
Internationally, Karki’s appointment has been viewed as a positive step toward stabilizing Nepal. Her reputation as a principled leader has garnered support from organizations like the United Nations, which previously defended her during the 2017 impeachment attempt. The international community will likely be watching closely as Karki navigates the challenges of her interim leadership, offering support where needed while respecting Nepal’s sovereignty.
A Historic Moment for Nepal
Sushila Karki’s appointment as Nepal’s first female head of government is a historic moment for the country, not only because of her gender but also because of the circumstances under which she has assumed power. Her career as a lawyer, judge, and now interim prime minister reflects a lifelong commitment to justice and public service. In a nation grappling with deep-seated challenges, her leadership offers a glimmer of hope for meaningful change.
The road ahead will not be easy. The protests, the prison escapes, and the broader societal unrest point to a country at a crossroads. Karki’s ability to restore order, address public grievances, and lay the groundwork for a more inclusive and accountable government will define her tenure. Her supporters believe that her courage, integrity, and independence make her uniquely suited to this moment, while her critics will be watching closely for any missteps.
As Nepal navigates this turbulent period, the eyes of the nation—and the world—will be on Sushila Karki. Her leadership will not only shape the immediate response to the crisis but also set the tone for Nepal’s future. Whether she can translate her judicial legacy into effective political leadership remains to be seen, but her appointment signals a willingness to confront the challenges head-on. For now, Nepal’s first female prime minister stands poised to lead her country through one of its darkest hours, with the weight of history and the hopes of a generation resting on her shoulders.
