KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP) — On Sunday, Nepal welcomed its new prime minister, Sushila Karki, who called for calm and cooperation in the aftermath of violent protests that swept the nation last week, resulting in at least 72 fatalities and significant destruction of government properties and homes of politicians.
Sushila Karki, the first woman to serve as prime minister, addressed top officials at her temporary office, announcing that each family of the deceased protesters would receive compensation of 1 million rupees (approximately $11,330), according to state television reports. Karki also assured that those injured during the protests would receive medical care.
“We all need to get together to rebuild the country,” Karki stated, emphasizing her commitment to steering the South Asian nation back onto a path of stability and progress.
The protests, dubbed the "protest of Gen Z," commenced on September 8, sparked by a brief social media ban. Tens of thousands, particularly young individuals, flooded the streets, voicing their frustrations regarding rampant corruption and poverty, while contrasting these issues with the lavish lifestyles of the children of political figures, often referred to as "nepo kids."
Violence erupted during the demonstrations as protesters attacked the parliament building, leading to police firing on the crowd. This chaos culminated in the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, who fled his residence amid the unrest.
On September 9, the prime minister's office, an old palace converted for government use, was set ablaze alongside essential offices such as the presidency, the Supreme Court, key government ministries, and several police stations. Protesters also targeted businesses and residences of notable families, including multiple outlets of a popular supermarket chain.
Calm was gradually restored later that evening after military forces took over the streets, initiating negotiations between the protesters, the military, and the president regarding the formation of an interim government.
Sushila Karki, aged 73, was appointed as the new prime minister on September 12, after having previously served as the only female chief justice of the Supreme Court in 2016 and 2017. She was well-regarded for her anti-corruption stance during her judicial tenure.
Fresh parliamentary elections have been scheduled for March 5, 2026, as the country aims to stabilize its political landscape following the recent turmoil.
Binaj Gurubacharya, The Associated Press
