New Leadership in Nepal: Sushila Karki Begins as Interim Prime Minister

Sushila Karki formally assumed the role of Nepal’s interim Prime Minister on Sunday, September 14, taking office at Singha Durbar. She commenced her duties at the Home Ministry building, which houses the PM’s office, at 11 am. Her leadership begins during a time of political uncertainty and criticism. A meeting was held with the Chief Secretary and all ministry secretaries to discuss the initial cabinet expansion, with imminent announcements expected. After taking charge, Karki confirmed that investigations into vandalism would commence and that her focus, and that of her team, was on a limited six-month term, at the conclusion of which they would hand over responsibility to the new parliament. She also appealed for public support. Additionally, Karki declared that all those who lost their lives on September 8 would be honored as martyrs, with each family receiving one million, and the government would also cover the medical expenses of the injured and arrange for the transfer of remains from Kathmandu. Karki’s appointment follows weeks of protests, largely orchestrated by Gen Z, against the former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s Government, due to corruption allegations. Karki was sworn in on Saturday at Sheetal Niwas in Kathmandu, becoming the first female Interim Prime Minister. Following the formal dissolution of Nepal’s Parliament on September 12, 2025, new elections have been set for March 5, 2026. Her appointment came as a rare demonstration of unity, brought about through a public vote by Gen Z leaders on Discord, cementing her position as a prominent figure among young Nepalese citizens seeking stability.