Historic Shift in Nepal: First Female Prime Minister Sushila Karki Takes Office After Gen Z Uprising

Kathmandu, Nepal – After a week of violent anti-government protests led by Nepal’s Gen Z youth, the Himalayan nation has entered a new political era. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as Nepal’s first female Prime Minister, following the dramatic resignation and escape of former Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli.

The protests, which began after the government attempted to ban 26 social media platforms, quickly escalated into one of the largest youth-led uprisings in the country’s history. With more than 50 casualties, thousands injured, and the parliament building set ablaze, Oli’s administration collapsed under overwhelming public anger.

Now, at age 73, Sushila Karki steps into the role of interim Prime Minister, tasked with calming the streets and leading Nepal until the scheduled general elections in March 2026.

A Reputation Built on Integrity

Karki is no stranger to the public eye. In 2016–2017, she became Nepal’s first and only female Chief Justice, earning national recognition for her unyielding stance against corruption. Despite facing political pressure and impeachment attempts in parliament, she emerged with a reputation as a “fearless and honest judge.”

Unlike many of Nepal’s political elites, Karki has no ties to powerful dynastic families. This independence has made her a symbol of hope for younger generations who demand accountability, transparency, and economic opportunity.

But her new role is an unprecedented challenge. Karki must convince angry and disillusioned youth that meaningful change is possible, while also navigating the country’s volatile political environment.

Gen Z’s Uprising

The recent protests began with outrage over the government’s restrictions on social media. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter had become crucial outlets for young Nepalis seeking expression, activism, and connection. When the ban was announced, resentment boiled over, fueled by years of frustration over corruption, unemployment, and inequality.

The slogan #NepoKids went viral, mocking the luxurious lifestyles of politicians’ children, while ordinary Nepali youth struggled with economic hardship. Crowds filled Kathmandu’s streets chanting, “Our future is being stolen.”

Police crackdowns only deepened the crisis. Security forces’ violent response left dozens dead and thousands injured. The anger peaked when protesters set fire to parliament and torched politicians’ homes, forcing Oli to flee by helicopter before resigning.

The Military Watches Closely

As chaos spread, the Nepalese Army deployed troops across major cities. Military leaders issued both a call for dialogue and a warning that they could take control if civilian leadership failed. For now, the army has allowed the civilian transition to proceed, but its presence looms heavily over Karki’s fragile government.

Who is Sushila Karki?

• Age: 73
• Historic Role: Nepal’s first and only female Chief Justice (2016–2017)
• Reputation: Known for uncompromising anti-corruption rulings
• Challenges Faced: Survived multiple impeachment attempts, emerging stronger
• Political Background: Independent, not connected to elite political families
• Current Role: Interim Prime Minister until March 2026 elections

Can She Win Over Gen Z?

Karki’s government faces immediate and enormous challenges. Within just six months, she must:

• Safeguard freedom of expression
• Launch credible anti-corruption measures
• Create economic opportunities for youth
• Restore public trust in democratic institutions

For many, Karki embodies the possibility of a fresh political path. But symbolism alone may not be enough. Nepal’s Gen Z protesters are demanding real reforms—not empty promises. If Karki fails to deliver, the protests could erupt once again, threatening both her leadership and Nepal’s fragile stability.

What This Means for Nepal

The appointment of Sushila Karki marks a historic moment for gender equality in Nepal and a pivotal test for the country’s democracy. As the first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister, she represents a break from the patriarchal political tradition.

However, her leadership will be judged not only by her gender milestone but by her ability to stabilize a fractured nation and bridge the generational divide. The next six months could determine whether Nepal moves toward reform and reconciliation—or spirals back into turmoil.

The post Historic Shift in Nepal: First Female Prime Minister Sushila Karki Takes Office After Gen Z Uprising appeared first on NSF News.