Nepal's former Supreme Court chief justice Sushila Karki has become the country's interim prime minister following deadly anti-corruption protests that resulted in the ousting of the government.
Karki, 73, was sworn in during a brief ceremony, making history as the first woman to assume leadership in the impoverished Himalayan nation after a deal was reached with the protest leaders.
Over 50 people died in clashes with riot police during mass protests that erupted over a government ban on social media platforms.
Although the ban was lifted on Monday, protests escalated into a mass movement, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli as demonstrators set fire to government buildings in Kathmandu.
Earlier on Friday, President Ram Chandra Poudel's press adviser confirmed that Karki would take the oath of office in the evening. An agreement was reached between the president and protest leaders following consultations involving legal experts.
Parliament is expected to be dissolved soon, and Karki's interim government is tasked with conducting general elections within six months.
Regarded as having a clean image, Karki garnered support from younger leaders advocating for change. She visited the protest site where multiple fatalities occurred, engaging with families of the victims.
Karki's political journey is noteworthy, hailing from a family connected to Nepal's prominent political dynasty and advancing to chief justice in 2016 with her husband's support. However, she is not without controversy, having faced impeachment issues during her tenure.
With ongoing unrest, the army has increased patrols in Kathmandu following the unprecedented protests triggered by the government's decision to ban 26 social media platforms, which has since fueled wider discontent with the political class.
The recent protests also highlighted issues of nepotism and corruption within the political elite, leading to a significant call for reform and accountability.
