Karki’s Litmus Test

With the appointment of former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the new Prime Minister on Friday, Nepal's deepening political crisis, which ensued from the Gen Z’s movement, is now over. The Gen Zeers’ revolt has created a huge void after it pushed the major political parties into a corner. Constituting a caretaker government that meets the demands of Gen Z and handles the emerging challenges was challenging. But the caution and wisdom that the Nepali Army, the Office of the President and the protesting group showed were praiseworthy. By becoming the first woman Prime Minister, Karki also created history. Her appointment to the highest executive position is hailed by all sides, which is indeed a development in the current time of uncertainty.

President Ramchandra Paudel appointed her as per Article 61 of the constitution, which empowers him to act as head of state and perform duties in keeping with constitutional and federal law. This Article was invoked for the first time to remove the constitutional difficulty, thereby ending the unprecedented impasse. The Gen Z-led movement that toppled the coalition government of Nepali Congress and CPN-UML within two days responded to the people's call. The movement exploded due to the deep frustration of young people with corruption, unaccountable leadership and a lack of opportunities.

 The first woman Chief Justice, newly appointed PM Karki, is known for her honesty and disdain for corruption. This gives ample hope that the politics of Nepal can be cleansed with justice and integrity. This achievement has come with the sacrifices of 51 innocent lives. It should be realised that extraordinary challenges lie ahead. The House of Representatives was dissolved, and new polls should be conducted within six months. A caretaker government will be responsible not only for conducting elections in a fair and fearless atmosphere but also for maintaining law and order by taking all sides into confidence.

Karki needs to handle the political situation delicately, as division and conflict have begun to plague the parties. The Gen Z campaign that makes a clarion call for change is still split into different groups, each staking its claim over its ownership. Despite being weakened, traditional political parties are still powerful and can resist changes that are against their interests. The new PM must prove her mettle to end the despair of restless youths, while working with parties that have strong networks from the centre to the grassroots. 

Nepal's economy is in a shambles, with rising unemployment, and the impacts of natural disasters also need attention. People will demand prompt action, even though the government's tenure is short and assigned to restore stability and order. The real test for Karki's leadership will come in her ability to defend democratic values and create an environment where young people realise that politics is a viable means of change. She will set a good precedent if she can maintain transparency and accountability in the governance system, even briefly. This is a proud moment for Nepal and a test of vision, strength, and leadership. It's time for every responsible citizen to help the government establish good governance, peace, and security, so there will be enduring stability and economic opportunities for all Nepalis at home.