KATHMANDU — Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been appointed interim prime minister of Nepal, becoming the country’s first woman to hold the post. Her appointment follows the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli earlier this week, after violent protests swept the nation.
More than 50 people were killed during the unrest, which included arson attacks on government buildings, including the parliament. Police say over 12,500 inmates escaped from prisons during the chaos and remain at large.
The protests erupted after the government imposed a ban on more than 20 social media platforms, citing noncompliance with new registration and oversight rules. The ban was lifted on Tuesday, but demonstrators say their movement also targets longstanding issues of corruption and government inaction.
Karki, widely respected for her integrity during her tenure as chief justice, is tasked with leading a transitional government and preparing the country for new elections. Her appointment has been welcomed by youth-led protest groups and civil society leaders pushing for reform.