Nepal Political Crisis: Army Deployed in Kathmandu as Ex-Chief Justice Sushila Karki is Named Interim PM
Nepal is in the grip of a severe political crisis, with the government collapsing after weeks of intense public protests. In a dramatic and unprecedented turn of events, the Nepal Army has been deployed on the streets of the capital, Kathmandu, to maintain order.
Amid the turmoil, President of Nepal has made a stunning announcement: former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is set to be appointed as the head of a neutral, interim government. This move will make her Nepal’s first female Prime Minister and tasks her with the massive responsibility of steering the country out of chaos and towards fresh elections.
This is a developing story with huge implications for the Himalayan nation and its neighbors, particularly India. Here is a simple breakdown of what is happening.
What is Happening in Nepal? A Simple Explainer
The situation in Nepal is complex. Here are the answers to the key questions.
Why did the government collapse?
The previous coalition government, led by the major political parties, resigned following massive, youth-led protests across the country. The public was angry about years of political infighting, corruption, and a lack of economic opportunities. When the parties failed to form a new government, it led to a dangerous constitutional crisis.
Why is the Army on the streets? Is it a coup?
This is not a military coup. According to the President’s office, the Nepal Army has been deployed in Kathmandu to prevent violence, protect important government buildings, and ensure peace during this period of extreme political uncertainty. It is acting under the authority of the civilian government to prevent the country from descending into anarchy.
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Sushila Karki is one of the most respected public figures in Nepal. She has a formidable reputation for integrity and fearlessness. Crucially, she was the first female Chief Justice of Nepal, a position she held from 2016 to 2017. Her non-political background and strong anti-corruption stance make her a widely acceptable choice to lead a neutral government.
What is an “interim government”?
An interim government (or caretaker government) is a temporary government that is formed when a regular elected government cannot function. Its main job is not to make big policy decisions, but to run the day-to-day affairs of the country and, most importantly, to hold free and fair elections. The new government led by Sushila Karki will be a technocratic government, meaning it will be composed of experts and respected citizens, not active politicians.
The Rise of Sushila Karki: From Top Judge to Prime Minister
Sushila Karki’s journey to the Prime Minister’s office is historic. During her time as Nepal’s top judge, she was known for taking on powerful figures and fighting corruption, even within the judicial system. She has never been a member of a political party, which is her biggest strength in the current situation.
Her appointment is a clear signal that the country is looking for a leader who is seen as being “above politics” and can restore public trust in the government. Her becoming Nepal’s first female Prime Minister is a landmark moment for women’s empowerment in South Asia.
How Did Nepal Get Here? The Road to Crisis
This political turmoil did not happen overnight. It is the result of years of frustration. Since Nepal became a republic in 2008, no government has completed its full five-year term. The major political parties have been accused of being in a constant power struggle, ignoring the needs of the people.
The recent youth protests, which called for a “citizen-led government,” were the final trigger that led to the collapse of the old system. The current crisis is a direct result of the political leadership failing to meet the aspirations of a young and restless population.
India’s Response and What it Means for the Region
India, as Nepal’s closest neighbor, is watching the situation very carefully. New Delhi has always supported a stable and democratic Nepal. The official response from India is expected to be cautious, emphasizing its support for the constitutional process and a peaceful transition towards new elections.
A stable Nepal is crucial for the security and stability of the entire South Asia region. The developments in Kathmandu are of immense national interest to India due to the open border and deep economic and cultural ties.
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What’s Next for Nepal? The Path to New Elections
The primary and sole mandate of Sushila Karki’s interim government will be to create a stable environment for holding fresh parliamentary elections within the next 6 to 12 months.
She faces huge challenges, including managing a fragile economy, keeping the peace, and ensuring that the political parties agree on the rules for the upcoming election. However, her appointment has been met with initial optimism by the public, who are desperate for a clean and effective government.
Conclusion: A Test for Nepal’s Democracy
Nepal is facing one of the most significant tests of its young democracy. The deployment of the Nepal Army in Kathmandu shows how serious the crisis is, while the appointment of a respected former judge like Sushila Karki offers a path back to stability. This is not a military takeover but an emergency measure to save the democratic process. The coming months will be crucial in determining if Nepal can emerge from this crisis with a stronger and more accountable political system.
