🇳🇵 Nepal Has a New Leader After Days of Unrest

Published on September 12, 2025 | Category: International News

Sushila Karki

Nepal is witnessing a historic political shift. After days of violent protests that shook Kathmandu, Sushila Karki—a former Chief Justice and noted anti-corruption activist—was appointed as the head of an interim government.

Who is Sushila Karki?

📌 Age: 73 years
📌 First female Chief Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court
📌 Known for standing up against corruption
📌 Respected figure among Gen Z protest leaders

Why Did the Protests Start?

The unrest was triggered when the government banned social media platforms like WhatsApp and WeChat on September 4. This move came amid growing frustration over:

⚖️ Widespread corruption in government institutions
⚖️ Economic inequality and lack of reforms
⚖️ Suppression of free speech and communication

Timeline of Events

📅 Thursday, September 4

Government bans social media platforms including WhatsApp and WeChat.

📅 Monday, September 8

Massive protests erupt across Kathmandu.
Government imposes curfew after violence spreads.
Two cabinet ministers resign.
At least 19 people died that day, with hundreds injured.

📅 Tuesday, September 9

Social media platforms restored.
Protests continued despite the rollback.
The Prime Minister resigned under pressure.
The President and Army Chief appealed for calm.

Protests Turn Deadly

According to police officials, the death toll rose to 51 including protesters, police officers, and prisoners. Government buildings were burned down in arson attacks, and the military was deployed in the streets of Kathmandu to restore order.

Role of Gen Z Leaders

A new generation of protest leaders, calling themselves Gen Z, emerged as the driving force behind the movement. They later met with the army and expressed their support for Sushila Karki as interim leader, giving her a strong public mandate.

What’s Next for Nepal?

Nepal has not witnessed such widespread protests since becoming a democratic republic in 2008. The coming weeks will be crucial as:

🗳️ The interim government tries to stabilize the country.
🗳️ Dialogue with protest leaders continues.
🗳️ Future elections and reforms will be planned.

Conclusion

The rise of Sushila Karki marks a turning point in Nepal’s political landscape. Her anti-corruption stance, combined with the support of youth-led movements, could reshape the future of governance in the Himalayan nation.

Tags: Nepal, Sushila Karki, Nepal News, Nepal Politics, Kathmandu Protests, Gen Z Movement