Sunday, September 14, marked the day Sushila Karki officially began her tenure as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister at Singha Durbar. At 11 am, she arrived at her new office, which is located in the Home Ministry building and serves as the PM’s office. This marks a pivotal moment for Nepal, as she steps into the role during a period of significant political instability and facing opposition. A meeting was conducted with the Chief Secretary and all ministry secretaries to discuss the first cabinet expansion. Announcements regarding appointments are anticipated. Karki stated that the investigation of those involved in vandalism incidents would be a priority, and that her administration was not focused on power, but on a six-month term with the aim of transferring authority to the incoming parliament. She also emphasized the importance of receiving public support. Karki has also announced compensation for the families of those who died on September 8, recognizing them as martyrs, with additional aid for the injured, including covering medical costs and helping with the transport of the deceased from Kathmandu. Karki’s appointment comes after extensive protests led by Gen Z, sparked by accusations of corruption against the former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s Government. After taking the oath on Saturday at Sheetal Niwas in Kathmandu, Karki became the first woman to hold the position of Interim Prime Minister. The Nepalese Parliament was formally dissolved on September 12, 2025, and fresh elections have been scheduled for March 5, 2026. Karki’s selection was the result of a public vote organized by Gen Z leaders on Discord, making her a leading figure in the youth’s quest for stability in Nepal.
