Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former Supreme Court chief justice, has been sworn in as the country’s first female prime minister. Her appointment comes after days of anti-corruption protests and violent clashes that forced the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.

Historic Appointment After Political Crisis

The 73-year-old leader took oath in Kathmandu on Friday, becoming the first woman to head Nepal’s government. Her appointment was made after a deal between President Ram Chandra Poudel and protest leaders, ending weeks of turmoil.

Over 50 people were killed in violent clashes when riot police confronted protesters. Demonstrations erupted after the government’s decision to ban social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Although the ban was lifted, protests grew into a nationwide movement demanding change.

Violence Forces Resignation of KP Sharma Oli

On Tuesday, angry demonstrators stormed and set fire to parliament and government buildings in Kathmandu. With public anger rising, Prime Minister Oli resigned, leaving the country in political chaos. Later that evening, parliament was dissolved, and general elections were scheduled for March 5, 2026.

Karki’s Leadership and Clean Image

Karki, respected for her clean reputation, has promised to form a new cabinet in the coming days. She is supported by student leaders from the Gen Z movement, who played a central role in the protests.

However, her government faces several challenges, including:

• Restoring law and order.

• Rebuilding parliament and damaged government buildings.

• Addressing public anger against corruption.

• Ensuring justice for victims of violence.

Gen Z Movement Pushes for Change

The protests were fueled by growing frustration over corruption, political nepotism, and poor governance. A viral “nepo kid” campaign on social media, which exposed the lavish lifestyles of politicians’ children, further ignited public anger.

Although the social media ban triggered the unrest, the movement quickly turned into a demand for deeper political reform. Many young Nepalis now see Karki’s appointment as a symbol of change and the beginning of a new political era.

Who Is Sushila Karki?

Born into a family linked to the Koirala political dynasty, Karki later married Durga Subedi, a senior leader of the Nepali Congress Party. With his support, she rose from a lawyer to become Nepal’s chief justice in 2016.

Her judicial career was not without controversy—she faced an impeachment motion during her 11-month tenure—but she remains admired for her independence and integrity.

Nepal’s Future Path

The army continues to patrol the streets of Kathmandu, as the country struggles to recover from its worst unrest in decades. For now, many citizens hope that Karki’s leadership will restore stability and prepare Nepal for free and fair elections.