Nepal's Progress Towards Recovery After youth-led Rebellion
Nepal has a new interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki, who made history as the country's first woman to hold the position. Karki, a former chief justice known for her integrity, has taken the helm amidst economic struggles and political unrest.
Karki's appointment came with more than a semblance of transparency, involving the Army chief and Gen Z protesters in the consultation process. However, the economy's issues may prove challenging for the interim regime to address. Only one in five young Nepalis has a job, most of them in the informal sector, and almost a million Nepalis are fleeing the country each year in search of better opportunities. The economy is heavily dependent on remittances, which account for a third of the GDP.
The outcome of the upcoming elections, scheduled for March 5, 2026, is uncertain due to the changed atmosphere of public anger. Several candidates are vying for the position, including engineer Sagar Dhakal, former education minister Sumana Shrestha, and Kathmandu mayor Balendra Shah. However, the interim PM has yet to announce whether the once-entrenched politicians will be allowed to run in the elections.
If the polls are held on the same rules as before and the entrenched politicians are allowed to run again, they may use the public vote to regain power, potentially undermining the student's revolution. However, Karki's actions so far are seen as positive signs, and she has appointed ministers with expertise in finance, economics, and power supply, which may aid in the reconstruction of Nepal, particularly Kathmandu.
Karki has also managed to maintain peace during the transition to the new government, a contrast to similar circumstances in Bangladesh, where a microfinance banker was parachuted in by forces residing far from the subcontinent and has been dragging his feet over fixing a date for elections.
As chief justice, Karki presided over several landmark cases. In 2016, she emerged unscathed from an impeachment process, having opposed the appointment of a police chief by disgruntled leaders, which led to public protests and the top court withdrawing the impeachment motion against her.
The interim PM has fixed an election date to bring Nepal back to a democratic platform. However, the economy's revival and the restoration of democracy will require careful navigation through the complex political landscape. Karki's leadership will be crucial in steering Nepal towards a brighter future.
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