Historic Appointment: Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal's First Female Interim Prime Minister

A Momentous Occasion for Nepal

News Media
New Delhi:
On Saturday, September 13, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his congratulations to Sushila Karki for her appointment as Nepal's first female interim Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone for the nation. In a message shared on the social media platform X, PM Modi conveyed his warm wishes and reaffirmed India's dedication to supporting Nepal's journey towards peace, prosperity, and development.

A Special Connection to Varanasi

This political achievement is particularly noteworthy due to Sushila Karki's deep ties to Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Modi.

Academic Excellence in Varanasi

Sushila Karki, who now leads Nepal's transitional government, earned her postgraduate degree in political science from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi in 1975, graduating at the top of her class. Her time in Varanasi, characterized by academic success and a passion for learning, has become a celebrated chapter in her journey from a student to Nepal's first female Chief Justice and now, its interim Prime Minister.

A Scholar's Journey

Top of Her Class

Sushila Karki's academic journey took root in Varanasi, where she pursued her master's degree in political science at BHU. Graduating in 1975, she distinguished herself as the top student in her cohort.

Known for her unwavering dedication, Karki was not involved in campus politics. An old classmate remarked, “Her life revolved around the hostel, department, and library. She was always focused on her studies.”

Reflecting on Her Time in Varanasi

In a recent interview, Sushila Karki reminisced about her experiences in Varanasi, recalling her professors, friends, and the tranquil Ganga river. Her hostel was situated by the riverside, and during the hot summer months, she and her peers would sleep on the rooftop under the stars. “Varanasi was not just an educational hub for me; it was a blend of culture, spirituality, and learning,” she shared.

From Law to Leadership

Trailblazer in the Judiciary

After completing her studies in India, Sushila Karki returned to Nepal and began her legal career in Biratnagar in 1979. Her career progressed steadily, and in 2009, she was appointed as a judge in Nepal's Supreme Court. On July 11, 2016, she made history by becoming the first female Chief Justice of Nepal, a role she held until June 6, 2017.

Renowned for her integrity and strong stance against corruption, Karki became a symbol of judicial reform. However, her tenure was not without challenges; in 2017, she faced an impeachment motion over allegations of bias and interference with the executive branch. Following significant public backlash and a Supreme Court interim order, the motion was ultimately withdrawn.

Navigating Political Challenges

In a dramatic turn of events following a political crisis and the fall of the KP Sharma Oli government, the 73-year-old Karki has now been sworn in as the interim Prime Minister. She is tasked with guiding Nepal towards general elections set for March 5, 2026.

Prioritizing Governance and Reform

Challenges Ahead

While her appointment is seen as a move towards stability, Sushila Karki faces significant hurdles. She must navigate a turbulent political landscape, maintain law and order after weeks of protests, and uphold the commitment to transparent governance. One of her initial actions as Prime Minister was to dissolve the lower house of Parliament and call for new elections.

Karki has emphasized that her administration will focus on corruption-free governance. Reports indicate that she agreed to lead the interim government only after receiving assurances of full authority to investigate corruption at all levels, including cases involving high-ranking officials.

Her interim cabinet, which is expected to be announced soon, may include notable reformists such as Kulman Ghising, former CEO of the Nepal Electricity Authority; Balendra Shah ‘Balen’, the popular Mayor of Kathmandu; and former Education Minister Sumana Shrestha. Karki has stated that she will not prevent her cabinet members from running in the upcoming elections.