Nepal Eases Restrictions as Interim PM Sushila Karki Takes Office

Nepal is gradually returning to normalcy following widespread protests led by the Gen Z movement against corruption and political stagnation, which resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and at least 51 deaths. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been widely endorsed as the country’s first female interim prime minister, supported by protest leaders, the army chief, and other prominent figures, symbolizing hope for anti-corruption reforms and better governance. However, her appointment faces constitutional challenges, as the president and major political parties oppose her candidacy on grounds that retired judges cannot hold political office, leading to a standoff between the presidency and the army. Despite this, an interim government under Karki's leadership has been formed, with the president dissolving parliament and scheduling new elections for March 5, aiming to stabilize the political landscape. Restrictions in Kathmandu and other regions have been lifted, allowing daily life to resume, while authorities continue efforts to address unrest's aftermath. The situation highlights the tension between political reform demands from Nepal’s youth and constitutional limitations within the country's governance framework.