Sushila Karki becomes Nepal’s first female Prime Minister; to lead Interim Government

Nepal plunged into a new political phase late Thursday after President Ramchandra Paudel dissolved the House of Representatives and announced fresh parliamentary elections for March 21 next year.

The move came on the recommendation of newly appointed interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who was sworn in as the country’s first woman Prime Minister just hours earlier.

Karki, a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, took the oath of office at a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Kathmandu.

President Paudel administered the oath in the presence of Vice President Rambaran Yadav and other dignitaries.

Her appointment follows days of deadly unrest across the country, as Gen Z-led protests erupted in response to a government ban on major social media platforms and mounting frustration over corruption.

The demonstrations, which turned violent earlier this week, left several people dead and forced the resignation of outgoing Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

The political crisis deepened, prompting three days of intense discussions at Sheetal Niwas, the official residence of the President.

After consultations with political stakeholders and civil society, the decision was made to entrust Karki with leading an interim administration until fresh elections are held. Widely respected for her integrity and past role as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, Karki’s appointment marks a historic moment for the Himalayan nation.

Her selection also aligns with the demands of protesting youth, who had been calling for the dissolution of Parliament and a transitional government free from entrenched political figures accused of corruption.

By choosing Karki, the government appears to be sending a signal that it is serious about reform and public accountability.

President Paudel emphasized that the interim government will be tasked with ensuring law and order, restoring public confidence, and preparing the country for a credible election in March.

In her brief remarks after taking the oath, Prime Minister Karki pledged to work for stability, transparency, and fairness during the transitional period.

“Our priority will be to bring peace, maintain democratic values, and ensure free and fair elections,” she said.

As Nepal braces for its upcoming elections, the appointment of Sushila Karki represents both a political reset and a symbolic breakthrough, reflecting the growing demand for accountability and gender representation in the country’s highest office.