Former Chief Justice of Nepal, Sushila Karki, has signaled her willingness to head the country’s proposed interim government amid growing political unrest and youth-led protests. The 71-year-old, nominated by the Gen-G youth movement, said she was “overwhelmed” by the trust placed in her and ready to serve in the national interest.
“Gen-G Group has trusted me to lead the government for a short period of time. I am ready to work in the national interest,” Karki said on Thursday.
According to local reports, representatives of the Gen-G youth are preparing to meet the Nepal Army Chief to formalize her appointment. While some internal differences remain, sources suggest that the agitators are moving toward consensus before presenting her name officially to the military leadership.
The proposal comes in the wake of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s resignation and escalating political turmoil. With parties unable to form a stable government, an interim leadership model has been pushed forward, and Karki’s name has quickly gained traction as a neutral figure with broad credibility.
The youth-driven Gen Z protest movement has been the driving force behind this shift. Triggered on September 8, 2025, after the government’s ban on social media platforms citing tax and cybersecurity concerns, demonstrations quickly spread across major cities including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj. The unrest turned violent, leaving at least 19 people dead and more than 500 injured in clashes with security forces. Curfews have since been imposed in several cities.
Amid this turbulence, Karki’s reputation as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and her history of integrity have strengthened her appeal. She had served as Chief Justice from July 2016 to June 2017, noted for her independent judgments and courage in confronting corruption.
Born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, Karki is the eldest of seven siblings. She began her law career in 1979, rose to the rank of Senior Advocate in 2007, and was appointed an ad-hoc judge of the Supreme Court in 2009 before becoming a permanent judge in 2010.
