Nepal returns to normalcy after deadly anti-corruption protests. Sushila Karki becomes Nepal’s first woman prime minister as curfew lifts and daily life resumes in Kathmandu.
Nepal Returns to Normalcy After Days of Turmoil
Kathmandu witnessed a fresh wave of calm on Saturday, just hours after Sushila Karki was sworn in as Nepal’s first woman prime minister. The country had been gripped by violent anti-corruption protests that forced the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli. With curfews lifted and army patrols scaled back, daily life is slowly resuming in the capital.
Shops, markets, and traffic have started to return, while cleaning drives are underway at government buildings and streets that were vandalised during the unrest.
Deadly Protests Spark Historic Change
The protests, largely driven by Gen-Z activists, were the most intense since Nepal’s civil war and the abolition of the monarchy in 2008. At least 51 people lost their lives, including one Indian national and three police officers, during days of clashes between protesters and security forces.
Demonstrators rallied against systemic corruption and a controversial social media ban, which acted as a trigger for the uprising. Many youths coordinated through Discord, a platform previously unfamiliar in Nepal’s political circles, to discuss leadership choices and ultimately endorse Karki as interim prime minister.
Symbol of Change: Nepal’s First Woman Prime Minister
At 73, Sushila Karki, a respected former chief justice known for her independence, carries both symbolic significance and public trust. For many Nepalis, her appointment marks a turning point in the fight against corruption.
“Nepal has got its first woman prime minister,” said Suraj Bhattarai, a Kathmandu-based social worker. “We believe she will push forward the agenda of good governance.”
Her swearing-in was facilitated through high-level negotiations involving Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel, President Ram Chandra Paudel, and representatives of the Gen-Z protest movement.
Challenges Ahead for the Interim Government
While Karki’s appointment has been widely welcomed, her interim government faces daunting tasks. Over 12,500 prisoners escaped from jails during the unrest, posing a major security challenge.
Economically, businesses suffered heavy losses, with Kathmandu’s Hilton Hotel alone reporting damages exceeding ₹8 billion. Tourism, a crucial sector for Nepal’s economy, is also reeling as foreign nationals remain stranded.
Most importantly, protesters are demanding an end to entrenched corruption and the establishment of a more transparent and accountable system.
Daily Life Resumes in Kathmandu
On Saturday, the Nepal Army confirmed that curfews and restrictive orders had been lifted. With the easing of restrictions, grocery stores, shopping malls, and public transport resumed operations. Citizens cautiously welcomed the return to normalcy, hoping stability would last.
“The interim government decision is good for now,” said Durga Magar, a 23-year-old shopkeeper. “What matters is not who is in power, but whether they can stop corruption and bring peace.”
Key Highlights
- Sushila Karki sworn in as Nepal’s first woman prime minister.
- Gen-Z protests toppled former PM K.P. Sharma Oli’s government.
- At least 51 people killed in the unrest; over 12,500 prisoners escaped.
- Youths used Discord to coordinate and nominate Karki as interim leader.
- Curfews lifted; Kathmandu returns to normal with shops and traffic reopening.
- Major damages reported, with tourism and business sectors hit hard.
Overview
Nepal stands at a historic crossroads as it seeks to turn a page after one of its most turbulent episodes in recent history. With Sushila Karki at the helm, the country’s citizens — especially its youth — are hopeful that the fight against corruption and the promise of good governance will finally take root. But with deep systemic challenges and security concerns, the real test for Nepal’s new leadership has only just begun.