Meet The New Prime Minister Of Nepal

Nepall’s President Ram Chandra Poudel appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as interim prime minister, making her the first woman to head the Himalayan nation’s government.

The appointment of Karki comes following heavy protests that led to the collapse of the previous administration, led by former PM KP Sharma Oli. With the youth refusing to calm down after the death of 19 protesters in the police firing, Oli submitted his resignation and Army took control of the capital. Negotiations began among the protesters, army and president over an interim government.

Seventythree-year-old Karki served as the only female chief justice in 2016 and 2017. The swearing-in ceremony was broadcast on state-run television. She is known for her stance against graft in the government. In 2017, she withstood an attempt of impeachment, accusing her of bias. At that time, the unsuccessful move was said to be an attack on the judiciary.

The protests by youth over social media ban and heavy corruption by the politicians turned violent as protesters attacked government buildings and police opened fire. Though the ban was lifted, youth continued to protest and torched the Parliament, the presidential residence and businesses.

The violent protests left as many as 51 people dead in the country. Most of them were protesters killed during police firing, while a few others were inmates trying to break out of a jail in Kathmandu. The dead included three police officers as well.

The military enforced a curfew since last Tuesday. Initially, the protest was against the banned social media but later, they reflected broader discontent. The youth were angry over “nepo kids” of political leaders, who enjoyed their luxurious lifestyle, even when the common public were struggling to find jobs and lead a comfortable life.