Sushila Karki, a distinguished jurist and former Chief Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court, has created history by becoming the first woman to serve as the Prime Minister of Nepal. She was sworn in on Thursday as the interim head of government, marking a turning point in the nation’s political journey. Her appointment comes at a turbulent time for the Himalayan nation, which has been rocked by weeks of violent, youth-led protests that forced the collapse of the previous government and led to the dissolution of parliament. The unrest was triggered largely by anger over a controversial social media ban and broader frustrations regarding corruption, lack of accountability, and political stagnation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India extended warm congratulations to Karki upon her historic appointment. Taking to the social media platform X, Modi expressed India’s steadfast commitment to supporting Nepal in its path toward peace, stability, and prosperity. “On assuming office as interim Prime Minister of Nepal, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Hon’ble Mrs. Sushila Karki. India remains fully committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of our brothers and sisters in Nepal,” he stated. Modi’s message reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties between the two nations at a time when Nepal’s political climate remains fragile.
Karki’s ascension to the premiership is being hailed as both symbolic and significant. As a respected legal mind who previously broke barriers in Nepal’s judiciary by becoming its first woman Chief Justice, her elevation to Prime Minister signals hope for greater inclusivity in leadership and a renewed push for democratic reforms. Observers say her leadership is expected to focus on restoring calm, rebuilding public trust, and steering Nepal toward a more transparent and accountable governance model in the wake of escalating public discontent.
The situation in Nepal remains tense, with protest movements still active in many regions. However, Karki’s appointment has raised expectations of dialogue and reconciliation between the state and its restless youth population. Her role as interim Prime Minister is widely viewed as a stabilizing measure, one aimed at bridging divides until a more permanent political solution can be established.
In assuming office at such a critical juncture, Karki not only sets a new precedent for women in leadership within Nepal but also carries the weight of guiding the nation out of its current political and social turbulence. For many, her appointment is more than a historic milestone—it is a moment of cautious optimism that Nepal may yet chart a path toward peace, reform, and renewal.
