New details have emerged regarding the appointment of Sushila Karki as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister, revealing the use of a gaming app and social media surveys in her selection. Notably, her appointment was determined by only 7713 votes, and the identities of the voters are unknown.
Following the resignation of KP Sharma Oli, a survey was conducted on Discord by Generation Z leaders. This survey considered Sushila Karki, along with Dharan’s Mayor Harka Sampang, and Mahabir Pun.
The poll on Discord saw a total of 7713 votes cast, with Karki receiving 50 percent of the votes. 3833 people selected Karki as their first choice. ‘Random Nepali’ secured the second position. ‘Random Nepali’ represents any individual who is a citizen of Nepal. Sagar Dhakal was third, supported by over 1000 voters.
Harka Sampang, the Mayor of Dharan, placed fourth, and Mahabir Pun was fifth. Generation Z representatives then used this survey to negotiate with President Ramchandra Poudel. It is said that President Poudel appointed Karki as interim Prime Minister based on the recommendation of Generation Z.
Two main questions have arisen regarding the survey. Discord, an American gaming company, has 200 million users. Who initiated the survey on Discord and what was their role?
Another question concerns the participants in the survey. Discord does not disclose user locations due to privacy concerns. Were the voters in Karki’s election solely Nepali citizens, and if so, who were they?
Controversy quickly followed Karki’s appointment, just three days later. The opposition comes from the very individuals who played a significant role in her selection. According to Nepali media, Sudan Gurung and his team have begun opposing Karki.
On Sunday and Monday, Gurung’s team protested outside the Prime Minister’s residence. Gurung’s team argues that Prime Minister Karki is making arbitrary decisions. The team has also expressed opposition to Karki’s plans for cabinet expansion.