Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister Promises Reforms Following Fatal Protests

Nepal’s newly appointed interim Prime Minister has pledged to combat corruption, generate employment, and enhance living standards, marking her first public statement since taking office after youth-led protests resulted in the fall of the previous government.
Sushila Karki addressed the nation following violent demonstrations that claimed at least 72 lives and led to the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. The protests erupted over mounting public anger about corruption and governmental shortcomings.
Officials reported that more than 2,100 individuals were injured during the two days of unrest last week. Fires and acts of vandalism inflicted widespread destruction on both government and private properties, including key institutions such as the prime minister’s office, the parliament, and the Supreme Court complex.

“We must accept the fact that the protests took place because of the failure to fulfil the spirit and objectives of providing good governance and prosperity enshrined in the constitution,” Karki said.

Her address came on Nepal’s national day, which marks the tenth anniversary of the constitution’s declaration.
Karki, formerly the chief justice of the Supreme Court, was appointed interim leader last week following discussions among protest leaders, the president, and the military. She has been entrusted with organising the parliamentary elections set for March 5 and is the first woman in the country’s history to assume the role of prime minister.
She emphasised the government’s dedication to job creation, quality of life improvements, and enhancing transparency.
The damage from the riots could total between $1 billion and $1.5 billion, according to Kulman Ghising, the minister responsible for energy, infrastructure, transport, and urban development. During his inspection of damaged public buildings in Kathmandu, Ghising appealed to both domestic and international Nepalis to support rebuilding efforts.
A representative from the Supreme Court stated that many hearings are now being held in tents, as the court’s buildings, records, and IT infrastructure were destroyed during the violence.
Police spokesperson Binod Ghimire noted that the public had sent over 30,000 emails in response to a request for video, photo, and other evidence to aid in investigations into the protests.
Ratings agency Fitch has warned that the unrest could negatively impact Nepal’s economic and financial stability, potentially putting pressure on its credit rating.