Kathmandu, September 10: In a major development amid Nepal’s ongoing political crisis, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been named as the interim leader of the government following the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli.

Reports suggest that her appointment was finalized during a virtual meeting held on Wednesday by the student community leading the anti-government protests.

Sushila Karki, born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, is widely respected for her commitment to democracy and judicial reforms. She holds degrees in political science and law and is remembered as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice. During her tenure, she presided over landmark cases involving transitional justice and election disputes, earning recognition for her impartial and progressive judgments.

Nepal has been gripped by massive protests led by the country’s youth, sparked by a controversial social media ban and widespread allegations of corruption.

The demonstrations have escalated into violent clashes, with incidents of arson, destruction of public property, and attacks on political leaders reported across the nation.

On Tuesday night, the Nepal Army took control of Tribhuvan International Airport after protesters attempted to storm the premises, forcing a 24-hour shutdown that disrupted domestic and international flights and stranded hundreds of foreign nationals.

The appointment of Karki as interim leader is seen as a crucial step toward restoring order and addressing the protesters’ demands.