Nepal Appoints Gen Z-Backed Sushila Karki Interim Prime Minister

Sushila Karki, Nepal's first female Chief Justice, has been appointed as the interim head of Nepal following mass protests that led to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli amid allegations of corruption and nepotism. The youth-led Gen-Z movement, which spearheaded the protests, selected Karki for her reputation as a politically neutral and incorruptible figure, aiming to guide the country through a difficult transition until fresh elections are held. Karki, who served as Chief Justice from 2016 to 2017 and was known for her zero-tolerance policy against corruption and advancing women's rights, has expressed commitment to supporting families of those who died during the protests and to working toward Nepal's development. She also emphasized the strong and longstanding cultural and political ties between Nepal and India, highlighting her personal connection through education at Banaras Hindu University and her positive views on Indian leaders, particularly Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite the challenges facing Nepal, Karki conveyed hope for a new beginning and pledged to foster cooperation both within Nepal and with neighboring India. The interim government's formation marks a significant moment in Nepal's political landscape driven by a generational demand for change and accountability.