Nepal Interim Government Swears In Three Ministers After Deadly Protests

Nepal's newly appointed interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki, the country's first woman to hold the position, has formed her caretaker government amid a period of political turmoil following deadly youth-led protests. President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath of office to three key ministers: Rameshore Prasad Khanal as Finance Minister, Kulman Ghising overseeing Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Physical Infrastructure and Transport, and Urban Development, and Om Prakash Aryal as Minister for Home Affairs and Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. The caretaker government has been tasked with restoring stability and preparing for general elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. The protests, which erupted after a ban on social media and allegations of corruption, resulted in at least 72 deaths and significant destruction, including the torching of parliament and government buildings. The new ministers face urgent challenges including economic recovery, tackling widespread youth unemployment, and addressing demands for a corruption-free administration. Nepal continues to struggle with deep economic issues, including a high youth joblessness rate and a low GDP per capita.