Kathmandu, September 15: Sushila Karki assumed office Sunday as Nepal’s interim Prime Minister, pledging swift action against those responsible for last week’s deadly “Gen Z” protests that toppled the KP Sharma Oli government.
“The kind of arson and vandalism that has taken place is a criminal act, carried out in an organised manner. Those responsible must be punished,” The Kathmandu Post quoted Karki as saying. She described the violence as part of a “pre-planned conspiracy” rather than a reflection of the broader demonstrators.
Karki, 73, a former Chief Justice, was appointed by President Ramchandra Paudel at the recommendation of Gen Z leaders who led the two-day agitation against a government ban on social media. The protests quickly escalated into a nationwide uprising against corruption and political apathy, culminating in Oli’s resignation Tuesday after demonstrators stormed his office.
At least 72 people were killed in the unrest — including 59 protesters, 10 inmates and three policemen — while hundreds were injured. Dozens of police posts were destroyed, and ministries have been instructed to prepare reports on damages and begin repairs.
Shortly after taking charge, Karki announced a series of relief measures. Those killed in the agitation will be officially recognised as martyrs, with their families receiving one million Nepalese rupees each in compensation. She also directed free medical treatment for 134 injured protesters and 57 policemen, along with long-term assistance for those permanently disabled.
The caretaker leader further promised that the government would cover food and lodging for bereaved families staying in Kathmandu and arrange transport of bodies to hometowns if requested. Appealing to the private sector for additional support, she assured families that disabled victims would continue to receive ongoing care.
With the Prime Minister’s Office gutted during the unrest, Karki began work from the newly built Home Ministry building inside the Singha Durbar complex.
The Gen Z protests, which erupted September 9, have shaken Nepal’s political establishment. Karki now faces the immediate task of restoring stability while laying the groundwork for fresh political negotiations.
