Sushila Karki Steps Down as Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister

Nepal has witnessed a significant political transition as Sushila Karki, the country’s first woman prime minister, stepped down after leading the nation through a turbulent phase. A former chief justice, she had come out of retirement to assume the interim leadership following violent anti-corruption protests in 2025 that toppled the government. Her brief tenure is widely viewed as a stabilising phase in Nepal’s fragile democratic journey.

Rise Amid Political Crisis

Sushila Karki assumed office at a time when Nepal was grappling with widespread unrest and institutional breakdown. The protests, led largely by a youth-driven movement, resulted in significant violence and destruction of key government infrastructure, including parliament buildings. Despite her reluctance, Karki was nominated by protest leaders to guide the country towards stability and elections. She accepted the role with the limited aim of restoring order and democratic processes.

Focus on Democratic Restoration

During her tenure, Karki prioritised the re-establishment of governance and accountability. One of her key decisions was to set up an investigation commission into the violence, which recommended legal action against former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Her leadership ensured that Nepal transitioned from street unrest to electoral processes within a short timeframe, reinforcing institutional credibility.

Legacy of Judicial Integrity

Before entering politics, Karki had built a reputation as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice. Known for her firm stance against corruption, she had earlier presided over landmark cases, including the conviction of a sitting minister. Her judicial career was marked by independence and resistance to political pressure, including surviving an impeachment attempt widely criticised as politically motivated.

Important Facts for Exams

• Sushila Karki was Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and later interim Prime Minister.
• Nepal transitioned to a federal democratic republic in 2008 after abolishing monarchy.
• The Maoist insurgency in Nepal lasted from 1996 to 2006.
• Bidya Devi Bhandari served as Nepal’s President from 2015 to 2023.

Transition to New Leadership

Following the successful conduct of elections, Karki handed over power to a new government led by a younger leadership emerging from the protest movement. Her departure marks a return to retirement, accompanied by a message of hope and cautious optimism for Nepal’s democratic future.