Nepal’s new interim prime minister, Sushila Karki, has promised to act on the demands of mass youth-led protests that brought down her predecessor, vowing to focus on ending corruption and restoring public trust.

Karki, 73, a former chief justice known for her independence, stepped into the role on Friday after weeks of violent unrest. At least 72 people have been killed and over 2,000 injured since demonstrations erupted earlier in the week, sparked by a social media ban that tapped into wider frustrations over poor governance and economic inequality.

“We must work in line with the vision of the Gen Z generation,” Karki said in her first public address on Sunday. “What they seek is an end to corruption, better governance, and equal opportunities. Together, we must commit to achieving this.”

Rising Discontent

With one in five young Nepalis unemployed and per capita GDP standing at just $1,447, economic frustration has been boiling for years. The protests, coordinated largely on the Discord app, spread rapidly as crowds torched parliament and government offices in Kathmandu.

Karki held a moment of silence for those killed before resuming meetings at Singha Durbar, the government complex where several buildings were set ablaze. “I did not seek this role—my name was brought forward from the streets,” she said, acknowledging her selection was pushed by the demonstrators themselves.

Six-Month Transition

Parliament has been dissolved, and fresh elections are scheduled for March 5, 2026. Karki emphasized her interim government will serve no longer than six months: “We will complete our duties and hand over power to the next parliament and ministers.”

Her appointment came after negotiations between President Ram Chandra Paudel, army chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel, and youth protest leaders. Paudel called the outcome “a peaceful solution to a grave and complicated situation.”

Security and Regional Support

Though the military has begun withdrawing from the streets, challenges remain—over 12,500 prisoners escaped during the turmoil and remain at large.

Regional powers moved quickly to show support. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said New Delhi backed Nepal’s “peace, progress, and prosperity,” while China’s foreign ministry expressed hopes of strengthening ties. The Dalai Lama also extended blessings, wishing Karki success in “fulfilling the people’s aspirations during these difficult times.”