The political landscape of Nepal is currently in a state of high drama. After days of street protests driven by young people, a significant meeting was held in Kathmandu. President Ram Chandra Paudel, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki, and Army Chief Ashok Raj Sigdel gathered at the Bhadrakali army headquarters to deliberate on who should be the next interim Prime Minister.
The meeting comes in the wake of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s sudden resignation earlier this week. His departure led to the eruption of the ‘Gen Z revolt’ on Monday, initiated by the youth.
Demonstrators numbering in the thousands took to the streets to demand change, with the protests quickly turning into violent confrontations with security forces. Protesters, including Kathmandu’s Mayor Balen Shah, have expressed strong support for Sushila Karki, seeing her as a neutral and independent leader to guide the nation through this period of crisis.
However, President Paudel has maintained that a Prime Minister must be a sitting member of parliament. As Karki is a former Chief Justice and not currently an MP, this position has resulted in a major impasse. This disagreement has caused confusion and worry among the public.
Protesting youth groups have issued warnings that they will surround the President’s office in protest if Karki is not appointed Prime Minister. Tensions are rising with each passing hour. Further fueling the debate, certain groups argue that the constitution prohibits former Chief Justices from assuming the highest political office.
Despite all this, her name has become a focal point for young people who feel let down by traditional politicians. Currently, discussions are ongoing between Paudel, Karki, and the military leadership. As the deadline approaches, Nepal is watching with bated breath.