Nepal has appointed its first female head of government, former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki, amid nationwide unrest that has left at least 51 people dead and more than 1,300 injured this week.
President Ramchandra Paudel’s office announced Karki’s appointment on Friday, shortly before she was sworn in to lead an interim administration. The 73-year-old previously served as the only woman to head Nepal’s Supreme Court.
“She is a credible choice to lead the interim government,” said Anil Kumar Sinha, a former justice who worked alongside Karki.
“Her integrity has never been in doubt, and she is not someone who can be intimidated or easily influenced. She is courageous and not swayed by pressure.”
According to police spokesperson Binod Ghimire, those killed in the recent unrest include 21 protesters, nine prisoners, three police officers, and 18 others. Authorities said another 1,300 people were injured during violent clashes as police attempted to control crowds.
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The turmoil follows the escape of nearly 13,500 prisoners during the week. While some have been recaptured, more than 12,500 remain at large, including fugitives who reportedly attempted to cross into India. Several have been apprehended by Indian border forces. Prisoners killed in the chaos were reportedly shot during or after clashes with Nepalese security personnel.
The army has imposed a nationwide curfew and reported recovering more than 100 firearms looted from prisons and police stations, including automatic rifles brandished by protesters.
A constitutional expert consulted by President Paudel before the announcement said Karki’s appointment reflects strong public demand for decisive leadership.
“They [Gen Z] want Karki. This will happen today,” the expert told Reuters on condition of anonymity.