Nepal's President Appoints First Female Leader: Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki Takes Helm

Nepal Appoints Former Chief Justice as Interim Prime Minister and First Woman Leader KATHMANDU, Nepal - September 12, 2025 - Nepal's President Ram Chandra Poudel appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the interim prime minister and the first woman to lead the Himalayan nation's government on Friday. The appointment comes after a series of fiery protests led to the collapse of the previous administration. Karki, 73, was sworn in by President Poudel at the presidential residence in a small ceremony broadcast on state-run television. Politicians, officials, and foreign diplomats invited to the ceremony congratulated her. "Nepal needs a stable government, and I am confident that Justice Karki will provide the necessary leadership," said Kumar Upadhyay, a senior leader of the Nepali Congress party, one of the main opposition parties. "Her appointment is a positive step towards restoring order in the country." Karki's appointment has been welcomed by many, including some lawmakers who had previously tried to impeach her in 2017 for alleged bias. However, others have expressed concerns about her ability to lead the government effectively. "Sushila Karki may be a respected figure, but she lacks experience in politics," said Ram Sharan Mahat, a senior leader of the Nepali Congress party. "We need someone with a strong understanding of governance and policy-making." Karki's tenure as chief justice from 2016 to 2017 was marked by her efforts to combat corruption within the government. She had also faced criticism for her handling of sensitive cases, including those involving high-ranking officials. The appointment of Karki as interim prime minister has sparked debate about her qualifications and experience in governance. While some see her as a strong leader who can bring stability to the country, others are concerned about her ability to navigate the complex world of Nepalese politics. As the new government takes shape, many are watching closely to see how Karki will handle the challenges ahead. With a long history of protests and instability in Nepal, the country's leaders are hoping that Karki's appointment will bring much-needed stability and calm. The current situation in Nepal remains fluid, with ongoing protests and demonstrations expected to continue in the coming days. The international community is also watching closely, with many countries expressing support for the new government. In a statement, the United States Embassy in Kathmandu welcomed Karki's appointment, saying it "looks forward to working with her to promote stability and prosperity in Nepal." The European Union also issued a statement, congratulating Karki on her appointment and expressing its commitment to supporting the people of Nepal during this challenging time. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Sushila Karki's appointment as interim prime minister marks a significant moment in Nepalese history. Whether she will be able to lead the country out of its current crisis remains to be seen. *Reporting by Npr.*