Nepal’s New PM Promises Justice, Aid for Protest Victims

In a decisive move to restore order and address the fallout from Nepal's explosive anti-government protests, newly sworn-in Prime Minister Sushila Karki has declared that perpetrators of vandalism and destruction during the recent "Gen Z" demonstrations will face the full force of the law. The 73-year-old trailblazer, who made history as Nepal's first female prime minister, took office on September 12, 2025, following the abrupt resignation of her predecessor, K P Sharma Oli, amid widespread unrest triggered by a controversial social media ban and accusations of rampant corruption.

Karki wasted no time in outlining her administration's priorities. In her inaugural address to senior government officials at the temporary Prime Minister's Office—relocated to the Home Ministry building in Singhdurbar after the original site was torched during the September 9 clashes—she emphasized accountability. "The arson and vandalism that occurred were pre-planned criminal acts, not the work of the genuine Gen Z protesters," she stated firmly. "Those responsible for organizing and executing this destruction of public and private property must be identified and punished without mercy."

The protests, spearheaded by Nepal's youth dubbed "Gen Z," erupted on September 7 in response to the government's stringent ban on social media platforms, which many viewed as an assault on free speech. What began as a targeted demonstration quickly snowballed into a nationwide outcry against political indifference and systemic graft, culminating in violent clashes on September 8 and 9. The death toll from the agitation now stands at a staggering 72, including 59 protesters, three police officers, and 10 prisoners, according to Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal. In a gesture of compassion, Karki announced that those killed will be honored as "martyrs," with their families receiving one million Nepalese rupees each in compensation. Additionally, free medical treatment has been promised to all injured parties.

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The unrest led to chaotic scenes, including the escape of over 10,000 inmates from various prisons amid the turmoil. Nepal Police spokesperson Deputy Inspector General Binod Ghimire reported a positive development on Sunday, with 3,723 escapees recaptured so far. "Some returned on their own accord, while others were apprehended with assistance from Indian authorities who intercepted those fleeing across the border," Ghimire explained. Efforts continue to round up the remaining 10,320 fugitives, underscoring the scale of the security challenge facing the new government.

Karki's cabinet formation reflects a blend of expertise and reformist zeal. On President Ramchandra Paudel's recommendation, three key ministers were appointed late Sunday: Kulman Ghising, the renowned former head of the Nepal Electricity Authority, will oversee the Ministries of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Urban Development, and Energy; Rameshwor Khanal, ex-Finance Secretary, takes the Finance portfolio; and Om Prakash Aryal, a prominent advocate and anti-corruption crusader, has been entrusted with Law and Home Affairs. Their swearing-in is scheduled for Monday at the President's Office.

In a landmark appointment symbolizing progress, Senior Advocate Sabita Bhandari was named Attorney General, becoming the first woman in that role. A former information commissioner, Bhandari steps in after the resignation of incumbent Ramesh Badal, bringing her legal acumen to bolster the justice system at a critical juncture.

Internationally, Karki's ascension has been met with widespread support. The United Kingdom pledged backing for inclusive governance, while the United States expressed eagerness to collaborate with Nepal's interim administration ahead of upcoming elections. Greetings also poured in from China, Japan, Pakistan, and Bhutan. Beijing, in particular, highlighted the "time-honored friendship" between the neighbors, with a Foreign Ministry spokesperson affirming China's respect for Nepal's independent path and commitment to advancing bilateral ties under the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

As Nepal navigates this turbulent transition, Karki's leadership—marked by a no-nonsense approach to justice and empathy for the victims—offers hope for stability. The Gen Z movement, born from digital frustrations, has exposed deep-seated grievances, forcing a reckoning with governance issues. With cabinet ministers poised to tackle infrastructure, finance, and security, and the Attorney General ready to prosecute the guilty, Karki's government aims to heal divisions and rebuild trust. Yet, the road ahead remains fraught, as the nation grapples with the scars of protest and the imperative for meaningful reform.

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