Sushila Karki, a respected former chief justice known for her tough stance against corruption, was appointed Nepal’s caretaker leader on Friday following the dramatic downfall of the nation’s government earlier this week.
Her appointment was confirmed by Sunil Bahadur Thapa, an adviser to the president, and came in response to demands from student-led protesters. These students, identifying as members of “Gen Z,” organised mass rallies on Monday that spiraled into chaos after security forces opened fire. The protests were sparked by widespread frustration over government corruption and a controversial ban on social media.
In the wake of the deadly crackdown, which left several protesters dead, the prime minister resigned, accepting responsibility for the violence. The government also lifted the social media ban.
However, the unrest intensified. On Tuesday, violent mobs swept across the country, torching and looting thousands of buildings, including major government offices. According to police figures released on Friday, over 50 people were killed during the upheaval, and nearly every key state institution suffered significant damage.
Karki’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the crisis-stricken Himalayan nation as it seeks to restore stability and begin rebuilding.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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