• Sushila Karki has taken office as Nepal's first female Prime Minister amid intense anti-corruption protests.
• The protests were sparked by a ban on social media and escalated to violence, resulting in at least 72 deaths.
• Karki vows to prioritize the demands of "Gen Z" protesters for good governance and an end to corruption.
• She pledged to complete her duties and hand over power after elections set for March 5, 2026.
• Regional leaders from India and China have expressed support for her leadership during this tumultuous period.

Sushila Karki has officially assumed the role of Nepal's interim Prime Minister, becoming the first woman to lead the nation amidst significant civil unrest. Her appointment follows considerable protests led by young citizens demanding government accountability and an end to corruption. These protests erupted after a ban on social media, leading to violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of at least 72 individuals and left over 190 injured, marking the nation's worst unrest since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, according to India Times, Channel News Asia, and TRT Global.

In her inaugural address, Karki emphasized her commitment to the goals of the "Gen Z" demographic, saying, "We have to work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation." She assured citizens that addressing the demand for good governance would be a priority during her limited tenure. The Prime Minister highlighted the pressing issues of economic inequality and corruption that propelled the protests, stating the need for collective determination to effect change, with references to the economic challenges facing many Nepalis. This perspective aligns with concerns about unemployment rates among young people and a low GDP per capita highlighted by sources, including Le Monde and Dawn.

Karki, who previously served as the chief justice of Nepal, noted that her rise to the role was not sought but instead "brought from the streets" as a result of vigorous negotiations with protest leaders and military officials. She pledged to hand over power to a new government after elections set for March 5, 2026, ensuring that her administration would not exceed a six-month term. This commitment to a transitional government reflects a broader desire for political stability and modernization in Nepal, as echoed by her remarks on governance in the face of public unrest according to BBC and South China Morning Post.

Now, Karki's cabinet faces the multifaceted challenge of restoring order, rebuilding key government infrastructure damaged during the protests, and addressing growing public demands for reform. International observers note that the path forward is perilous, with many expressing skepticism about whether the new leadership can effectively navigate these tumultuous waters while honoring the aspirations of the youth-led movement. The urgency of this moment is further compounded by security concerns stemming from the protests, as reported by Al Jazeera.