Sushila Karki Sworn In as Nepal's First Woman PM: What You Need to Know

In a groundbreaking moment for Nepal, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as the country's interim Prime Minister on September 12, 2025, marking her as the first woman to hold the nation's highest executive office. This historic appointment came amid a political crisis triggered by massive Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests that forced the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and led to the dissolution of parliament. Backed by youth activists for her integrity and anti-graft stance, Karki's role is to stabilize the nation and oversee elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. As Nepal navigates this turbulent transition, here's what you need to know about the new leader and the events that propelled her to power.

Who is Sushila Karki? A Trailblazing Jurist

Sushila Karki, born on June 7, 1952, in Morang district, eastern Nepal, is a renowned jurist with a career spanning over four decades. She earned a master's degree in political science from Banaras Hindu University in India and a law degree from Tribhuvan University, before starting her legal practice in 1979. Rising through the ranks, Karki became a senior advocate in 2008 and was appointed as an ad hoc justice to the Supreme Court in 2009, later made permanent in 2010.

Her pinnacle achievement came in July 2016 when she was appointed Chief Justice of Nepal, becoming the first woman in that role—a position she held until her retirement in June 2017 at age 65. During her tenure, Karki was known for landmark rulings on transitional justice, electoral disputes, and notably, overturning politically motivated appointments, such as the government's choice for police chief, which highlighted her commitment to meritocracy over cronyism. This stance led to an impeachment motion against her in 2017 by ruling parties, seen as retaliation for her anti-corruption decisions, but public outcry and judicial intervention halted it. Post-retirement, she authored books like "Nyaya" (Justice, 2018), an autobiography, and "Kara" (Prison, 2019), a novel exploring women's struggles and judicial themes. Married to Durga Prasad Subedi, a former Nepali Congress youth leader, Karki has long been admired for her independence and advocacy for women's rights in a male-dominated field.

The Gen Z Protests: Spark of Revolution

The protests that reshaped Nepal's political landscape erupted in early September 2025, initially triggered by a government-imposed ban on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Discord—seen as an attempt to silence a viral "Nepo Kids" campaign exposing the extravagant lifestyles and alleged corruption of politicians' children. What began as an online youth movement quickly escalated into widespread street demonstrations led by Generation Z activists demanding accountability, transparency, and an end to systemic graft. By September 9, the unrest turned violent: protesters stormed and set fire to parliament, government buildings, and ministers' homes, resulting in over 50 deaths—including 21 protesters, nine prisoners, three police officers, and others—and more than 1,300 injuries.

The crackdown by security forces, including a social media blackout and lethal force, fueled outrage, with Gen Z groups using platforms like Discord—where a server dubbed the "Parliament of Nepal" grew to 145,000 members—to organize and even conduct polls for interim leadership. The movement's demands included dissolving parliament, prosecuting corrupt officials, and installing a clean interim government, drawing support from figures like Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah. This youth-driven revolution highlighted Nepal's deep frustrations with elite corruption and economic inequality, marking the deadliest social unrest in decades.

The Swearing-In Ceremony and Immediate Aftermath

On September 12, 2025, in a low-key ceremony at the President's residence in Kathmandu, Sushila Karki took the oath of office administered by President Ram Chandra Paudel, becoming Nepal's 73-year-old interim Prime Minister. The event, broadcast on state television, followed intense negotiations involving protest leaders, major political parties, and Nepal's army chief, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, who warned of a potential state of emergency if no resolution was reached. Karki's selection was a consensus choice, with Gen Z protesters on Discord overwhelmingly voting for her over other candidates like Balendra Shah and Kul Man Ghising, citing her unblemished record. Parliament was dissolved on President Paudel's recommendation, paving the way for Karki's interim cabinet, which she is expected to form soon to restore order and investigate the protest violence. Army patrols continue in Kathmandu amid tight security, as the nation reels from the chaos. Internationally, India welcomed the new government, expressing hopes for peace and stability, while the UN and others urged calm. Karki herself stated that the youth "believe in me" to lead temporarily toward elections.

Key Challenges and Priorities for the Interim Government

As interim PM, Karki faces daunting tasks: first, quelling the unrest and bringing perpetrators of violence to justice, including probing the deaths during protests. Her government must lift remaining restrictions, rebuild burned institutions like parliament, and address the brain drain of young Nepalis fleeing economic woes exacerbated by corruption. Anti-corruption reforms are paramount, with expectations to prosecute "Nepo Kids" and elites, aligning with Gen Z demands for transparency.

Overseeing fair elections by March 2026 is crucial, ensuring no political interference, while forming a diverse cabinet that includes youth voices to maintain protester support. Critics note her lack of executive experience, but her judicial independence offers hope for impartial governance. Economically, stabilizing the impoverished Himalayan nation amid international scrutiny will test her leadership.

Global Reactions and Nepal's Path Forward

The international community has responded positively to Karki's appointment. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended best wishes, reaffirming India's commitment to Nepal's prosperity. The UN called for restraint and support for democratic transitions, while China and the US monitored the situation closely. On social media, reactions mix celebration of the first female PM with cautious optimism, as one X post noted her election via Discord poll as a modern twist. Karki's interim tenure could redefine Nepal's politics, empowering women and youth while combating corruption. If successful, it may inspire similar movements regionally. However, failure risks further instability. As one protester tweeted, "The journey has just begun. All Nepalis have to stay strong."