In a landmark move on Friday evening, Nepal’s former chief justice, Sushila Karki, was sworn in as interim prime minister. The appointment came after KP Sharma Oli resigned on Tuesday, leaving the government in need of a steady hand.
President Ram Chandra Poudel officially tapped Karki for the role, and she took her oath in a ceremony attended by foreign envoys and top officials. According to the presidential appointment letter, Karki will hold all ministries under her charge and is tasked with organising a general election within six months.
As part of the transition, Nepal’s House of Representatives was dissolved at 11 p.m. on Friday, with a national vote now scheduled for March 5, 2026. The move follows protests by major political groups on September 8 and 9 in Kathmandu and other regions, which reached a deal paving the way for Karki’s leadership.
At 73, Karki is the first and only woman in Nepal to have served as chief justice of the Supreme Court. Her appointment as interim prime minister marks another historic milestone, highlighting the growing role of women in Nepal’s political landscape.
With the clock ticking on a six-month mandate, Karki’s interim government faces the challenge of ensuring a smooth election process. Her legal background and consensus-driven approach could be key assets as Nepal prepares for its next chapter.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
