Citizens acclaim Karki’s appointment as new PM

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 14: Nepal is celebrating a historic moment as former Chief Justice Sushila Karki assumes office as the country’s first female Prime Minister. Since her appointment and swearing-in late Friday night, social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X, have been flooded with messages of congratulations.

Across the country, citizens from all walks of life, including civil society members, human rights advocates, women’s activists, and artists, expressed hope that Karki’s leadership will strengthen the rule of law, promote good governance, and address corruption and bureaucratic challenges that have long hindered public service.

Many view her historic rise as a symbol of change and a step toward a more transparent and accountable administration.

Congratulating Prime Minister Karki, social activist and member of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Bandana Rana, said that having already broken barriers as the country’s first female Chief Justice, her leadership at this historic moment inspires hope. 

“May your leadership inspire a new era where Nepalis learn from past mistakes and vote consciously for a just and equitable future,” she said.

Writing on her Facebook, Lily Thapa, member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), congratulated Karki for being appointed as Prime Minister and said the historic rise of Nepal’s first female Prime Minister was made possible through the sacrifices of young lives and the courage of many. “NHRC is committed to ensuring impartial investigations of the latest events, bringing the truth to light.”

Similarly, sharing his happiness, Prakash Saput, a singer, wrote, “The most beautiful part is that the hard-won constitution has been preserved through thoughtful and mature decision-making by the younger generation, while honouring the legacy of previous generations.”

Extending her gratitude to Gen-Z for the transformative change, Sumana Shrestha, a leader of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, wrote that the courage and perseverance of Gen-Z are truly commendable. “However, remember this is just a beginning, a long journey still lies ahead.”

Shailendra Neupane, a BSC Forestry student, expressed optimism that Karki’s appointment could help eradicate corruption in the country. “I hope every Nepali who wants to serve the nation can do so in a fair and transparent environment. Political quotas and syndicate systems should end, with positions given based on merit rather than connections. Nepotism, favouritism, and party politics must not influence opportunities, allowing careers to flourish within Nepal.”

A sense of relief and celebration is spreading across Nepal as the nation witnesses the historic shift. 

According to our Tanahun correspondent, Amar Raj Naharki, women’s groups in Tanahun gathered on Saturday to mark what they called a collective victory for all Nepali women. “This is not just one woman’s achievement, it is proof of the ability of all women,” said Nirmala Malla, Chairperson of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs Nepal, Tanahun. 

She described Karki’s rise from the judiciary to the executive as a journey of courage and determination that has inspired women and young people alike. 

Former teacher Kamala Parajuli added emotionally, “Her words are simple yet powerful. Listening to her feels like hearing a true leader. It is not just a victory for women, but pride for the entire nation.”

Voices of celebration were echoed by Brahma Kumari Yamuna, Director of the Rajyoga Training Centre in Damauli, who said that institutions led by women have thrived due to discipline and transparency. “This historic step raises gender equality to new heights and strengthens hopes for a more prosperous nation,” she said.

Similarly, Rajan Rawat, our Humla correspondent, writes that the community leaders of the district expressed optimism that the political crisis is finally turning towards resolution.

Civil society leader Janak Budha said the Gen-Z movement’s demands had been heard without undermining the rule of law. “If only one side’s demands had been met, the country could have slipped into conflict,” he said, calling Friday night’s agreement a much-needed safeguard for the achievement of the Zen-G movement. 

Chairperson of the Nepal Red Cross Society, Ganesh Mahat, stressed the importance of consensus, adding, “Agreements that create winners and losers cannot provide lasting solutions.” 

Local journalist Suresh Pariyar welcomed the positive steps and urged all parties to now focus on peace and development.