On Saturday, India extended a warm welcome to the formation of a new interim government in Nepal, led by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki. Late on Friday night, Sushila Karki was sworn in as the first-ever female Prime Minister of Nepal.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed optimism about the new interim government's potential to foster peace and stability under Sushila Karki's leadership.
The statement further articulated that as a close neighbor, a democratic nation, and a long-term development partner, India will continue to collaborate with Nepal for the prosperity and well-being of both nations’ people.
Following the resignation of KP Sharma Oli, Sushila Karki, at 73, assumed office on Friday night amidst prolonged political uncertainty. The president, Ramchandra Paudel, administered the oath at the presidential residence in Kathmandu, attended by Nepal’s Chief Justice, senior officials, security chiefs, and diplomatic community members. President Paudel remarked that the interim government under Sushila Karki has the mandate to conduct new parliamentary elections within six months.
KP Oli Forced to Resign
Amid nationwide protests sparked by controversial social media restrictions, KP Oli was compelled to step down. Following three days of intense demonstrations, 73-year-old Sushila Karki was appointed as the head of the interim government. Once accused and suspended by a previous government through impeachment, she now takes on substantial responsibility in the interim government. Around 7 PM on Friday evening, Sushila Karki arrived at the Presidential Palace accompanied by members of the 'Hami Nepal' NGO, who spearheaded this Gen Z movement.
Conditions Presented to Sushila Karki
Before accepting the role of leading the interim government, 'Hami Nepal' NGO imposed three significant conditions, first being the dissolution of the existing federal parliament, a condition that was accepted. This implies that the results from the 2022 parliamentary elections, where various political parties secured seats, will now become null as the parliament dissolves.
The second condition demands a fair investigation by a judicial commission into the deaths of young protesters and the controversial 'shoot at sight' orders given during the September 8th and 9th movement.
The third condition requires an investigation into the assets of all ministers and representatives from the previous government, including former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, with the creation of a judicial authority for this purpose.
Duration of Sushila Karki's Interim Government
Sushila Karki will remain at the helm of Nepal's interim government until fresh elections are conducted, and a new government is formed. A timeframe of six months has been set for this process, during which new elections are to be conducted, leading to the establishment of a new government. Nepal's Gen-Z youth have entrusted Sushila Karki with the responsibility to ensure that the upcoming parliamentary elections are conducted with utmost integrity and impartiality.
