Nepal’s interim prime minister Sushila Karki took office on Saturday, following weeks of Gen Z-led protests over corruption and unemployment that forced KP Sharma Oli to resign.
A cabinet expansion is anticipated later on Sunday, according to reports. Karki, aged 73, was sworn in on Friday night as Nepal’s first female prime minister, bringing an end to days of political uncertainty after Oli’s sudden resignation amid widespread anti-government demonstrations against a social media ban and alleged corruption.
Upon assuming office, Karki said, “Those involved in the incident of vandalism will be investigated. My team and I are not here to taste the power. We won’t stay for more than 6 months. We will hand over the responsibility to the new parliament. We won’t succeed without your support.”
She added, “27 hours of movement is first in Nepal. They are demanding economic equality, the eradication of corruption…”
Meanwhile, the streets of Kathmandu began returning to normal on Sunday morning after days of intense anti-corruption protests that gripped the capital and several other cities. Light traffic was observed, some shops reopened, and tensions appeared to be easing.
The protests on 8 September, largely driven by Gen Z youth activists, stemmed from anger over corruption, lack of accountability, and the government’s controversial social media ban.The unrest ultimately led to Oli’s resignation after demonstrators stormed his office. More than 50 people were killed in the nationwide disturbances.
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Karki’s appointment as Nepal’s first female prime minister has sparked hope among many citizens. On Sunday, China congratulated Karki on taking office. “China congratulates Madam Sushila Karki on becoming Prime Minister of Nepal’s interim government,” a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The spokesperson added, “China and Nepal share a time-honoured friendship. China, as always, respects the development path chosen independently by the people of Nepal. We stand ready to work with Nepal to promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and further advance bilateral relations.”
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