She stepped in when Nepal was divided and the streets were burning, never expecting to lead. Now, after guiding the country to elections, Sushila Karki quietly hands power to Prime Minister Balen Shah and exits with grace.
Nepal’s 2026 general election has begun after months of political turmoil triggered by the Gen Z-led anti-corruption protests. Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki cast her vote Thursday morning.
The appointment of Sushila Karki as Prime Minister and the dissolution of Nepal’s legislature are unconstitutional, argues Satyadeep Kumar Singh
These four join the existing ministers Rameshore Khanal (Finance), Kulman Ghising (Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation), and Om Prakash Aryal (Home Affairs).
The call, initially planned for Tuesday, was postponed to Thursday. Karki, 73, assumed office last Sunday, taking charge of the caretaker government after KP Sharma Oli resigned.
In its response, the MEA said India "will continue to work closely with Nepal for the well-being and prosperity of our two peoples and countries."
Her main task will be to stabilize the country and prepare the ground for the next elections, handing over power peacefully to the newly elected representatives when the time comes.
Speaking earlier to The Statesman, Karki called the moment “demanding times” but also said she was ready to serve if the people trusted her.
The main challenge remains: some parties want a new prime minister appointed without dissolving parliament, while the Gen Z-led protest movement favors dissolving it.
Nepal faces chaos as talks continue between Sushila Karki and President Paudel on forming an Interim Government, with the Army moving around Kathmandu after deadly Gen Z protests.
