The political crisis in Nepal has entered a decisive phase, with reports suggesting that Sushila Karki, the country’s former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, is being considered to lead the nation through a political transition. The development follows weeks of intense turmoil, marked by Gen Z-led protests that spiraled into the worst violence Nepal has seen in two decades.

The protests, spearheaded by young Nepalis frustrated with corruption, unemployment, and weak governance, culminated in the ouster of the Prime Minister and the shocking burning of parliament, leaving the country in chaos. With the political class discredited and the state’s credibility shaken, the Nepal Army has intervened to restore order and prevent further descent into instability.

The rise of Gen Z protests

The movement now being referred to as the Gen Z uprising began as peaceful demonstrations demanding greater accountability, transparency, and opportunities. Young protesters, mobilised through social media and grassroots networks, soon drew support from broader sections of society.

However, when authorities attempted to suppress demonstrations, violence escalated. Several cities witnessed clashes between protesters and police, with widespread reports of arson, vandalism, and heavy-handed crackdowns. The climax came when the parliament building in Kathmandu was set ablaze, a symbolic rejection of Nepal’s entrenched political elite.

Observers have noted that this marks a generational shift in Nepal’s politics. Unlike past protest waves, which were often driven by party cadres, this movement has been distinctly youth-led, independent, and digitally coordinated, echoing similar Gen Z-driven movements worldwide.

Ouster of the Prime Minister

The mounting unrest left the Prime Minister politically isolated. As violence engulfed the capital and international pressure grew, he was forced to step down. His resignation, however, did not calm tensions, as protesters insisted on systemic reforms rather than cosmetic leadership changes.

The absence of a credible political consensus has created a power vacuum, raising fears of prolonged instability.

Sushila Karki: A potential transition leader

In this context, Sushila Karki has emerged as a consensus figure to guide Nepal through its turbulent transition. Karki, who served as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice from 2016 to 2017, is widely respected for her independence, integrity, and reformist stance.

During her tenure, she was known for taking strong positions against corruption and political interference in the judiciary. Though she faced attempts at impeachment, Karki stood her ground, earning a reputation as a defender of the rule of law.

For many Nepalis, particularly younger generations disillusioned with politicians, Karki represents a neutral, principled figure who could temporarily bridge divides and restore stability. Her judicial background lends her credibility in overseeing a transitional framework, potentially including constitutional reforms or fresh elections.

The army’s role

The Nepal Army has stepped in to restore order, imposing curfews in several regions and securing key government installations. While the military insists that its role is temporary, history weighs heavily on Nepal’s present crisis.

Nepal has long oscillated between monarchy, democracy, and military-backed governments, and the army’s involvement raises concerns about whether this transition will remain civilian-led or slip into authoritarian control.

Military leaders have hinted that they support the idea of a neutral caretaker leadership, with Karki seen as an acceptable figure across the political spectrum.

International reactions

The crisis has drawn swift reactions from Nepal’s neighbours and global powers. India, China, and the United States have all urged restraint and called for an inclusive transition process.

India, in particular, has a vested interest in Nepal’s stability due to shared borders, economic ties, and security concerns. New Delhi is reportedly in close contact with Nepali stakeholders, emphasising the need for a peaceful, democratic resolution.

China, too, has expressed concern, especially given its growing economic footprint in Nepal through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Beijing has warned against instability that could disrupt its strategic projects.

Western governments and rights organisations have condemned the use of violence against protesters and called for accountability, while also stressing that any transition must remain democratic and inclusive.

Challenges ahead

Even if Karki is appointed as the transition leader, the road ahead for Nepal is fraught with challenges:

• Restoring public trust: Decades of political dysfunction have eroded faith in democratic institutions. The youth-driven protests demand not just leadership change but systemic reforms.

• Balancing army involvement: The military’s role will need to be carefully managed to prevent overreach. A civilian-led process is critical to ensure legitimacy.

• Economic recovery: The unrest has worsened Nepal’s already fragile economy, hit by declining tourism, unemployment, and inflation. Restoring stability will be essential for recovery.

• International alignment: Nepal must navigate pressures from India, China, and Western powers, each seeking influence during the transition.

A turning point for Nepal

The current crisis could prove to be a historic turning point in Nepal’s democratic journey. If Sushila Karki assumes leadership of the transition, it will mark a break from traditional political elites and potentially open space for younger, reform-minded leaders.

At the same time, the scale of violence underscores how deeply disillusioned Nepali citizens—especially the youth—have become with the political system. The path forward will require not only temporary stability but also long-term structural changes to address corruption, inequality, and governance failures.

Conclusion

Nepal stands at a crossroads after the Gen Z protests brought down its government and shook the foundations of its political system. With the army moving to restore order and Sushila Karki emerging as a respected candidate to lead the transition, the coming weeks will be decisive.

Whether Nepal seizes this moment to rebuild trust, empower its younger generation, and reform its governance structures, or slides deeper into instability, will depend on the choices made now. The world is watching closely, and the Nepali people, especially its youth, remain determined that their sacrifices must not go in vain.

Do you want me to also prepare a background profile of Sushila Karki’s past judicial career

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