Story perspectives

Nepal's First Female PM Takes Office Amid Unrest

9/13/2025

Summary

Karki Takes Office

Sushila Karki became Nepal's first female Prime Minister on September 12, 2025, following violent protests that led to PM K.P. Sharma Oli's resignation.
The unrest, triggered by a social media ban and corruption allegations, resulted in at least 51 deaths.
Karki, a former Chief Justice, was selected by youth representatives from the Gen Z movement.
President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved Parliament and set elections for March 5, 2026.
Karki must unite her cabinet, tackle corruption, and manage relations with India and China.

Summary

Nepal Protests Escalate

Protests in Nepal intensified following PM K.P. Sharma Oli's resignation, resulting in at least 34 fatalities and widespread unrest.
Gen Z campaigners are split on interim government leadership, with Sushila Karki as a leading candidate against Harka Sampang.
The Nepal Army is mediating discussions, raising concerns about its constitutional role amid calls for stability.
Political parties advocate for dialogue to address the crisis, opposing Parliament's dissolution.
A curfew is in place, and the Supreme Court will resume habeas corpus hearings after arson attacks disrupted proceedings.

History

Historical Context

The 2006 Nepalese Civil War concluded with the Comprehensive Peace Accord, establishing a federal democratic republic. Despite political reforms, corruption and instability persisted, notably during K.P. Sharma Oli's tenure as Prime Minister from 2018 to 2021. The recent protests, echoing past struggles for democracy, resulted in over 85 deaths, highlighting ongoing governance challenges as Sushila Karki became Nepal's first female interim Prime Minister on September 12, 2025.

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Karki Takes Office

Sushila Karki became Nepal's first female Prime Minister on September 12, 2025, following violent protests that led to PM K.P. Sharma Oli's resignation.
The unrest, triggered by a social media ban and corruption allegations, resulted in at least 51 deaths.
Karki, a former Chief Justice, was selected by youth representatives from the Gen Z movement.
President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved Parliament and set elections for March 5, 2026.
Karki must unite her cabinet, tackle corruption, and manage relations with India and China.

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