Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first woman Chief Justice and the newly appointed interim leader backed by the Gen-Z movement, spoke to CNN-News18 about her responsibilities in the wake of the recent unrest. She acknowledged the trust the young protesters placed in her to guide the government during this transitional period.
In the interview, Karki said, “Gen Z believed in me to lead the government for the short time. I am ready for the responsibility." She emphasised that her immediate priority would be addressing the humanitarian impact of the protests, particularly providing support to the families of the 19 young people who lost their lives during the demonstrations.
She confirmed that the youth members of the movement, “girls and boys,” had voted in favour of her leadership. “I have accepted their request to lead the interim government,” she told CNN-News18.
Looking back on Nepal’s political past, Karki acknowledged the difficulties of the present. “There have always been problems in Nepal from the past. The situation is very tough now," she said.
Despite the challenges, she expressed optimism and determination. “We will work together for the development of Nepal," she said, adding, “We will try to establish a new beginning for the country."
Nepal has witnessed Gen Z protest, a widespread movement led by young people, primarily students, to demand accountability and transparency from the government. The protests began on September 8, 2025, in Kathmandu and other major cities, including Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj, after the government imposed a ban on major social media platforms, citing tax revenue and cybersecurity concerns.
As tensions mounted, the situation quickly escalated on the ground. At least 19 people were killed and 500 injured in clashes with security forces. Curfew was imposed in several cities, including Kathmandu, to control the situation.
Gen Z delegation agreed upon Sushila Karki's name to lead the transition government in a virtual meeting earlier today.
Sushila Karki made history as she became Nepal's first female Chief Justice, serving in the role from July 2016 to June 2017.
Born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, Sushila Karki is the eldest of seven children. She began her legal career in 1979 after completing her law education in Biratnagar. She became a Senior Advocate in 2007.
Karki was appointed as an ad-hoc judge of the Supreme Court in January 2009 and became a permanent judge in 2010.
The Nepali Army on Wednesday announced the imposition of prohibitory orders and continuation of the nationwide curfew in response to the escalating unrest driven by the Gen Z-led protest in various parts of the country.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the Directorate of Public Relations and Information, the Army stated that the prohibitory orders will remain in effect until 5:00 pm today.
Following that, a nationwide curfew will come into force from 6:00 am on Thursday, Bhadra 26 (September 11).
The Army noted that any further decisions will be made based on the developing security situation.
The Army also expressed appreciation for people's cooperation in helping maintain order, while offering condolences for the loss of life and property during the ongoing protests.
It also warned that "lawless individuals and groups" had infiltrated the movement and were engaging in dangerous criminal activities, including arson, looting, violent assaults, and even attempted rape.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
