New Nepal Prime Minister Sushila Karki, who assumed office today just days after a massive Gen Z uprising toppled the KP Sharma Oli government, urged collective efforts to rebuild the nation, emphasising that her team has taken charge to serve the people, not to cling to power. She also announced that those killed in the anti-government agitations will be officially recognised as martyrs.
Karki, the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, said he would not remain in power for more than six months and would hand over authority to the newly elected Parliament.
“My team and I are not here to taste the power. We won’t stay for more than 6 months. We will hand over the responsibility to the new parliament. We won’t succeed without your support,” the Prime Minister said.
On the way forward for the country, which she said is facing a deep financial crisis, Karki remarked, “All stakeholders must come together to rebuild Nepal. We will not give up. We will work to restore our nation.”
On September 8, Kathmandu erupted in massive anti-government protests led by Gen Z, triggered by a social media ban but fuelled by years of anger over corruption and inequality. The demonstrations escalated into violent clashes with police, leaving at least 51 dead and over 1,300 injured. A day later, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned, toppling his Communist Party of Nepal (UML) government.
“Twenty-seven hours of continuous movement is a first in Nepal. The protesters are demanding economic equality and the eradication of corruption,” Karki noted, adding, “Those involved in incidents of vandalism will be investigated.”
She announced, “I am deeply pained by the loss suffered by families, especially those who lost school- and college-going children. Those killed in the crackdown on the Gen Z Revolution will be declared martyrs. A financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh will be provided to the families of the martyrs, and aid will also be extended to those injured.”
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