Interim government is created to address the Gen Z's demands and organize election on March 5, 2026.
Background on the Political Crisis
Nepal experienced significant political unrest in early September 2025, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with systemic corruption, poverty, and governance failures. The protests, led primarily by Gen Z activists, began on September 8, 2025, initially in response to a government-imposed ban on 26 social media platforms. These demonstrations quickly escalated, fueled by broader demands for accountability and economic reforms. Clashes with security forces resulted in at least 72 deaths, including shootings of protesters, and led to the burning of key public buildings such as the Parliament. The violence prompted the dissolution of Parliament and the resignation of then-Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, a veteran leader whose administration was accused of failing to address these issues.Formation of the Interim GovernmentIn the wake of the crisis, an interim government was formed on September 13, 2025, with Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former Chief Justice and Nepal's first female prime minister, appointed to lead it. Karki, known for her anti-corruption stance, was sworn in at the fire-damaged presidential office. The government is tasked with stabilizing the country for six months until national elections scheduled for March 5, 2026. This marks a transitional period aimed at addressing the protesters' demands and preparing for democratic polls.Key Appointments and Cabinet ExpansionOn September 15, 2025, Prime Minister Karki expanded the interim Cabinet by appointing three ministers during a ceremony presided over by President Ramchandra Paudel:- Om Prakash Aryal as Home Minister (a human rights lawyer).
- Rameshwar Prasad Khanal as Finance Minister (a former finance secretary focused on economic reforms).
- Kulman Ghising as Energy Minister (credited with previously ending chronic power outages in Nepal).
The Cabinet remains small, with only a three-member core team as of the latest updates, and the position of Foreign Minister is still undecided, potentially to be filled by former secretaries or ambassadors. Further expansions have been reported, including the inclusion of Rameshore (likely Rameshwar) in roles aimed at stabilizing governance.Government Priorities and Recent StatementsThe interim government's primary focuses include combating corruption, ensuring good governance, creating jobs, raising living standards, and promoting economic equality - directly echoing the Gen Z protesters' demands. Other key priorities involve reconstructing damaged infrastructure from the protests, forming an investigation commission to probe atrocities committed during the unrest, and restoring public confidence in sectors like tourism ahead of the peak season in November-December 2025.On September 19, 2025 - coinciding with Nepal's Constitution Day - Prime Minister Karki delivered her first public address, vowing to "fix the failures" that led to the deadly protests. She reiterated commitments to anti-corruption efforts, job creation, and improved living standards, while emphasizing the need for peace and stability. Constitution Day was marked by various programs across the country, amid ongoing pressure on the government to uphold constitutional values.International ReactionsThe interim government has received broad international support. On September 19, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Karki via phone, while envoys from China and the United States met her separately to pledge backing. Earlier statements from India, South Korea, and others welcomed the formation, expressing hope for stability and credible elections. The Catholic Church in Nepal also endorsed the government on September 19, calling for peace. Countries like the Philippines are monitoring the situation through their diplomatic channels. However, foreign challenges persist, including balancing relations with India and China, mobilizing aid for reconstruction, and addressing geopolitical suspicions, such as reactions to a congratulatory message from the Dalai Lama.Ongoing Issues and Domestic TurmoilDomestically, the government faces the aftermath of the protests, including rebuilding hundreds of damaged structures and addressing public trauma - such as injuries to young activists. Economic recovery, particularly in tourism, remains critical, as does ensuring fair elections amid lingering unrest. While the situation has stabilized somewhat by September 19, 2025, experts note the interim government's limited mandate may complicate long-term foreign policy and geopolitical adaptations, including past strains with partners like Japan due to previous administrations' decisions. No major new incidents have been reported on this date, but the focus remains on transitional governance and accountability.
COMMENTS