Nepal Supreme Court Halts Recall of 11 Ambassadors Across Key Countries

Nepal's Supreme Court has ordered an interim halt to Prime Minister Sushila Karki's decision to recall 11 ambassadors appointed by the previous government, citing lack of justification and concerns about diplomatic relations. The ambassadors, representing key countries such as China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan, will remain in their posts following a legal challenge by a lawyer who argued the government's charges were unsubstantiated. This judicial intervention is viewed as a setback for Karki's interim government, which faces significant pressure from Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests demanding broader reforms and dismissals. The court noted the limited tenure of the interim government, which is tasked with holding elections by March 2026, and questioned the necessity of recalling ambassadors without clear reasons or plans for replacements. While the decision restrains Karki's immediate actions, analysts suggest it may ultimately strengthen her ability to resist external pressures. The government has expressed respect for the court's order and is expected to comply with the ruling.