KATHMANDU, Sept 12 — In a monumental shift for Nepal’s political landscape, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is poised to become the country’s interim prime minister, marking a historic moment following weeks of intense, youth-led anti-corruption protests.
A trusted source close to the matter told Reuters on Friday that the decision follows the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, whose government collapsed under public outrage. The nationwide protests—driven largely by Generation Z activists—erupted after a controversial social media ban was imposed. The ban has since been lifted, but not before clashes between protesters and police claimed 34 lives and injured over 1,300 people.
The unrest only began to calm when Oli stepped down, prompting urgent talks among political leaders, including President Ramchandra Paudel and army chief Ashok Raj Sigdel. Both are believed to have backed Karki’s appointment, based on legal counsel and mounting public demand.
“They want her. Gen Z wants her. This will happen today,” the source said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the negotiations. A final decision is expected after a 9am meeting at the president’s residence, according to youth representatives engaged in the talks.
Karki, known for her fierce independence and clean record during her judicial tenure, is viewed as a symbol of integrity and change. Her appointment may serve as a bridge between disillusioned youth and a weary establishment.
The president’s office and army officials have yet to publicly confirm the decision.
Nepal, sandwiched between India and China, has endured prolonged political instability since abolishing its monarchy in 2008. With limited economic opportunities, millions of Nepalese have been forced to work abroad to support families back home.
On Friday, a fragile calm seemed to return to Kathmandu. Shops reopened, cars returned to the streets, and police were seen wielding batons instead of guns. However, the military presence, while reduced, remains visible. Some roads are still blocked, and tension, though subdued, lingers.
This Is More Than Politics—This Is a Wake-Up Call
This moment is not just a political reshuffle—it is the echo of a generation demanding better, louder than ever before. Gen Z didn’t just raise slogans—they shook a nation into action. And the message is clear: they will not be ignored.
Sushila Karki’s rise is not just a change of face—it’s a hopeful step toward rebuilding trust, restoring democracy, and empowering a nation to believe again.
