Nepal's newly-appointed interim prime minister, Sushila Karki, has announced that she will only serve in her role for a maximum of six months. In her first address since being sworn into office, Karki emphasized that she reluctantly accepted the position due to widespread public demand following significant unrest in the country.
Karki will oversee the government until elections are held on March 5 next year, where a new government will take charge. Her appointment follows a series of anti-corruption protests that resulted in the deaths of over 70 individuals, including police officers.
Following her oath, Karki expressed her commitment to addressing the demands of the 'Gen Z' movement, which seeks to eradicate corruption and promote good governance and economic equality. We have to work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation, she stated.
The mass protests began on September 8, triggered by a ban on social media, leading to widespread chaos including vandalism of political properties and a burning parliament. Karki reflected on the shame of such destruction, questioning how those responsible could identify as Nepali.
Despite her previous role as chief justice where she was known for her integrity, Karki's leadership will face multiple challenges. Restoring law and order, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and reassuring the youth and the broader public regarding the future of Nepal's democratic values will be paramount in her administration.
