In a historic move, former chief justice Sushila Karki has been appointed as the interim prime minister of Nepal following intense protests that led to the resignation of K.P. Sharma Oli. The country, now in a state of upheaval, witnessed significant unrest as citizens rallied against corruption and governance issues.
Protests Spark Change
The protests, largely driven by the youth, known as ‘Gen Z‘, escalated after the government imposed a ban on social media, which was later revoked. The demonstrations turned violent, resulting in the deaths of at least 51 individuals and injuring over 1,300, making it the worst civil disturbance since the country’s monarchy was abolished in 2008.
- Deaths & Injuries: Over 34 protesters killed, 1,300 injured during police confrontations.
- Government Response: The police and army enforced curfews to restore order.
- Public Sentiment: Many citizens felt unsafe, staying indoors amid escalating violence.
Karki’s Appointment
President Ram Chandra Paudel confirmed Karki’s new role, marking a significant step towards stabilising the government. As the first woman to hold the position of chief justice, her appointment is viewed as a potential turning point for Nepal’s political landscape.
“It is a moment of victory… finally the power vacuum has ended,” stated Amrita Ban, a protester involved in the movement. With a new leader at the helm, hope for change among the demonstrators remains palpable.
Looking Ahead
As Nepal grapples with these changes, the road to recovery remains fraught with challenges. Key issues such as unemployment—affecting a fifth of the population aged 15 to 24—and economic instability will require urgent attention. Karki’s new administration will need to address these pressing concerns to regain public trust and restore normalcy.
Continued Vigilance on the Streets
Although signs of life are returning to the capital, with shops reopening and reduced military presence, a significant challenge lies ahead. Security forces remain vigilant, patrolling the streets to ensure peace.
Time will tell whether this transition brings the change that many Nepalese are yearning for. As they navigate this turbulent period, hope persists that Karki will steer the nation towards stability.