Nepal's Interim PM to Hand Over Power Within Six Months
KATHMANDU, Nepal - Sushila Karki, the newly-appointed interim prime minister of Nepal, has pledged to hand over power within six months, following her appointment on Friday. According to Reuters, Karki stated that she would step down after the new government emerges from elections scheduled for March 5 next year.
Karki's appointment comes after a tumultuous period in Nepalese politics, marked by anti-corruption protests that led to the ousting of the previous government. The protests, sparked by a ban on social media platforms, resulted in over 70 deaths and widespread violence, including the vandalism of politicians' homes and the burning of parliament.
"We have to work according to the thinking of the Gen Z generation," Karki said, referencing the "Gen Z" movement that drove the protests. "What this group is demanding is the end of corruption, good governance, and economic equality."
Karki's appointment was facilitated by an agreement with protest leaders from the "Gen Z" movement. The interim prime minister emphasized her commitment to addressing the protesters' demands, stating, "I did not wish for this job. It was after voices from the streets that I was compelled to accept."
The protests were sparked by a ban on social media platforms, which many saw as an attempt to suppress free speech and dissent. The violence escalated over two days, with politicians' homes being vandalized and parliament set ablaze.
According to analysts, Karki's appointment is seen as a compromise between the government and protest leaders. "This is a temporary measure to stabilize the situation," said one analyst, who wished to remain anonymous. "The real test will be how well she can implement reforms and address the protesters' demands."
Karki's tenure is expected to be short-lived, with elections scheduled for March 5 next year. The outcome of these elections will determine the future of Nepalese politics and whether Karki's efforts will have a lasting impact.
In related news, the Nepalese government has announced plans to review its policies on social media and free speech in light of the recent protests. A spokesperson for the government stated that they are committed to finding a balance between maintaining public order and protecting individual rights.
As Nepal navigates this challenging period, Karki's commitment to handing over power within six months is seen as a positive step towards stability and reform. However, much remains to be seen about the effectiveness of her tenure and whether she will be able to address the deep-seated issues that drove the protests in the first place.
Background:
Nepal has been plagued by corruption and poor governance for years, leading to widespread discontent among its citizens. The recent protests were sparked by a ban on social media platforms, which many saw as an attempt to suppress free speech and dissent.
Additional Perspectives:
"This is a welcome development," said one protest leader from the "Gen Z" movement. "We are committed to working with Karki to ensure that our demands are met."
"Karki's appointment is a temporary measure, but it's essential that she takes concrete steps towards reform and accountability," said another analyst.
Current Status:
Karki has pledged to hand over power within six months, following the elections scheduled for March 5 next year. The outcome of these elections will determine the future of Nepalese politics and whether Karki's efforts will have a lasting impact.
Next Developments:
The Nepalese government is expected to review its policies on social media and free speech in light of the recent protests. Karki's tenure as interim prime minister will be closely watched, with many expecting her to take concrete steps towards reform and accountability.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
