KATHMANDU – Nepal’s first female chief justice, Sushila Karki, has been appointed interim head of the country following days of violent anti-corruption protests that plunged the Himalayan nation into its worst political crisis in decades. Karki’s appointment on September 12 comes shortly after Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned amid deadly unrest that claimed at least 51 lives.
Known for her uncompromising stance against corruption, Karki has a history of challenging powerful interests, a position that once nearly cost her the chief justice role through an impeachment motion that was eventually dropped due to public pressure. Despite limited political experience, she is regarded by legal experts as the ideal figure to stabilize the nation during this volatile period.
The unrest, led predominantly by young protesters denouncing corruption and political nepotism, resulted in widespread violence, including the torching of government buildings and the imposition of curfews in parts of the country. The army has been deployed to maintain order while key political leaders remain in hiding.
Born in 1952 in a farming family and educated in India, Karki’s legal career began in 1979. She was once involved in political activism, including a movement that led to her brief incarceration, and throughout her career, she has championed principles of justice and equality. In a recent statement, she vowed to work for Nepal’s development and to establish “a new beginning” for the country.
Despite the challenges ahead, legal and political observers emphasize the importance of Karki assembling a capable team to navigate Nepal through this historic transition.