Sushila Karki, First Female Prime Minister in Nepal

Sushila Karki Becomes Nepal’s First Female Prime Minister Amid Gen Z Protests

Karki is a former Supreme Court chief justice and the first woman to lead Nepal, Photo File Reuters

Kathmandu, Nepal — In a historic turn for Nepalese politics, Sushila Karki (born June 7, 1952), a distinguished jurist, author, and politician, has been appointed as the country’s interim prime minister following sweeping Gen Z–led protests demanding government reform. Her appointment on September 12, 2025, makes her the first woman ever to lead the Government of Nepal.

Karki, already a trailblazer in Nepal’s judiciary, previously made history as the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nepal, a position she held from July 11, 2016, to June 6, 2017. During her tenure, she earned a reputation for judicial integrity and fearless decision-making, often ruling against entrenched political interests.

Her unexpected return to the national spotlight comes amid a period of political turbulence, as widespread demonstrations led by younger generations have pressured Nepal’s political establishment to embrace transparency and progressive reforms. Analysts suggest that Karki’s clean public image and record of independence made her an appealing choice to guide the country through this transitional period.

Political observers note that Karki’s interim leadership could set a precedent for greater gender inclusivity in Nepalese politics. Her role is widely seen as symbolic of both the country’s evolving democratic values and the increasing influence of youth activism.

Karki’s immediate priorities as interim prime minister are expected to include stabilizing the political climate, initiating dialogue with protest leaders, and laying the groundwork for fresh elections.

Early Life and Education of Sushila Karki: A Trailblazer’s Journey

Long before Sushila Karki shattered glass ceilings as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and later interim Prime Minister, her path to leadership was forged through perseverance, intellect, and a passion for justice.

Born on June 7, 1952, to a Chhetri family in Sankarpur—a settlement that later became part of Biratnagar—Karki grew up as the eldest of seven siblings. In a country where opportunities for women were limited, her early years were marked by a determination to excel academically and challenge societal expectations.

Karki’s pursuit of education began at Mahendra Morang College under Tribhuvan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1972. Eager to deepen her understanding of governance and public affairs, she traveled to India to study political science. In 1975, she completed her master’s degree in political science at Banaras Hindu University, one of India’s most prestigious institutions.

Her academic journey did not stop there. Returning to Nepal, Karki enrolled at Tribhuvan University’s law program, where she graduated in 1978. This decision laid the foundation for her storied legal career, which would later transform Nepal’s judiciary and political landscape.

Karki’s educational achievements—earned at a time when higher education for women in Nepal was uncommon—have been celebrated as an inspiration for young Nepalese women aspiring to break barriers in law, politics, and public service.

Sushila Karki: Early Years of a Fearless Reformer

Long before she became Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and later interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki built her reputation through hard work, courage, and a strong sense of justice.

From 1986 to 1989, Karki worked as an assistant teacher at Mahendra Multiple Campus in Dharan, sharing her knowledge with young students. At the same time, starting in 1988, she also took on a major responsibility as bar president of the Koshi Zonal Court, a role she held until 1990.

That same year, Nepal was gripped by the 1990 People’s Movement, a nationwide push to end the Panchayat regime, an autocratic political system. Karki didn’t stay on the sidelines—she joined the protests for democracy and was imprisoned in Biratnagar Jail for her involvement. The experience deeply affected her and later inspired her to write “Kara,” a novel that reflects the struggles and hopes of that time.

Karki’s career continued to rise. In 2002, she became president of the Biratnagar Appellate Court, proving her leadership and legal expertise. By 2004, she had achieved another milestone: recognition as a senior advocate at the Nepal Bar Association, cementing her status as one of Nepal’s most respected legal figures.

Her early years show a woman who not only excelled in her profession but also stood up for democracy and justice—qualities that would later define her groundbreaking roles in Nepal’s legal and political history.

Sushila Karki: From Ad Hoc Justice to Nepal’s First Female Chief Justice

Sushila Karki’s journey through Nepal’s judiciary is a story of resilience, principle, and a fearless fight against corruption.

In January 2009, Karki was appointed as an ad hoc justice of the Supreme Court of Nepal, a temporary role that became permanent the following year. Her reputation for fairness and integrity quickly set her apart.

One of her most talked-about moments came in March 2016, when the Supreme Court reviewed a writ petition challenging the appointment of Khil Raj Regmi as interim prime minister. The petition had been filed in 2013 but was dismissed by most of the bench as no longer relevant. Karki and then-Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha disagreed, arguing that Regmi’s appointment was unconstitutional. Karki later said the move had caused lasting harm to Nepal’s judiciary, underscoring her belief in upholding constitutional principles even when unpopular.

Following Shrestha’s retirement in April 2016, the Constitutional Council recommended Karki as his successor. She served as acting chief justice until July 2016, when a parliamentary hearing confirmed her as the first woman to officially lead Nepal’s Supreme Court. Known for being strict and staunchly anti-corruption, she was admired by reformists but faced strong pushback from political figures wary of her independence.

Tensions escalated when the Supreme Court overturned the government’s appointment of Jaya Bahadur Chand as Chief of Nepal Police. In April 2017, members of the Nepali Congress and the CPN (Maoist Centre) initiated impeachment proceedings against her. Under the 2015 Constitution, which had made impeachment easier to pursue, Karki was automatically suspended from her post as the process began.

Despite the political storm, Karki’s tenure left a mark on Nepal’s legal system as a period of bold decisions and a commitment to constitutional order. Her willingness to challenge authority cemented her place as one of Nepal’s most influential judicial leaders.

The dramatic impeachment proceedings against Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, sent shockwaves through the country’s political and legal landscape, exposing deep rifts within the government and sparking concerns about the rule of law.

According to The Himalayan Times, many observers believed the move was “politically motivated, intended to thwart the verdicts on some high-profile cases.” Their concerns were echoed internationally when United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al-Hussein warned that “the attempt to remove her gives rise to serious concerns about the Government’s commitment to transitional justice and the rule of law.”

The political fallout was swift. Bimalendra Nidhi, then Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister, resigned in protest, while the Rastriya Prajatantra Party withdrew from its coalition with Nepali Congress and CPN (Maoist Centre).

In May 2017, Supreme Court Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana issued a stay order against the impeachment proceedings. Mounting public pressure and a cabinet reshuffle deal ultimately forced the ruling parties to withdraw their case.

Karki, who had stood her ground throughout the crisis, stepped down on June 6, 2017, upon reaching the constitutional retirement age of 65. Her departure marked the end of a turbulent chapter for Nepal’s judiciary.

In retirement, Karki turned to writing. She published her autobiography, Nyaya, reflecting on her early life and career, where she emphasized that democracy depends on an independent judiciary. The following year, she released her novel Kara, inspired by her own imprisonment during Nepal’s pro-democracy movement, offering readers a personal glimpse into her lifelong fight for justice.

Karki’s stand during the impeachment crisis and her later works have cemented her legacy as a defender of judicial independence and democratic values in Nepal.

Landmark Rulings: The Notable Decisions of Justice Sushila Karki

During her tenure on the Supreme Court of Nepal, Sushila Karki established herself as one of the country’s most principled and fearless justices. Her rulings set legal precedents, challenged entrenched corruption, and shaped the nation’s evolving democracy. Below are some of her most influential decisions:

1. Om Bhakta Rana v. CIAA/Government of Nepal (Sudan Peacekeeping Mission Corruption)
Karki played a key role in exposing irregularities tied to the United Nations Sudan Peacekeeping Mission, where funds intended for the mission were misused. Her decision underscored the judiciary’s duty to hold officials accountable, even in sensitive international matters.

2. Prithivi Bahadur Pandey v. Kathmandu District Court (Polymer Banknote Corruption)
In another anti-corruption milestone, Karki addressed the printing of polymer banknotes in Australia, where suspicious dealings raised serious concerns. The ruling sent a strong message about transparency and clean governance in Nepal’s financial sector.

3. Surrogacy Case
In a landmark judgment on surrogacy, Karki’s court set guidelines to protect the rights of surrogate mothers and intended parents. The case helped clarify Nepal’s legal stance on reproductive rights and safeguarded vulnerable women from exploitation.

4. Conviction of Jay Prakash Gupta
Karki’s decision to uphold the corruption conviction of former minister Jay Prakash Gupta demonstrated that no political figure was above the law. It strengthened public trust in the judiciary’s independence and integrity.

5. Overturning Lokman Singh Karki’s Appointment to the CIAA
Perhaps one of her most politically sensitive rulings, Karki struck down the appointment of Lokman Singh Karki to the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA). The decision, seen as a stand for constitutional principles, highlighted the court’s role in checking executive power.

These rulings, taken together, reflect Sushila Karki’s unwavering commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law. Her work not only reshaped Nepal’s legal system but also inspired a generation of lawyers and citizens to believe in the power of an independent judiciary.

Sushila Karki Sworn In as Nepal’s First Female Prime Minister After Gen Z-Led Uprising

In a historic and unexpected turn for Nepalese politics, Sushila Karki, a respected former chief justice, was sworn in as the country’s interim prime minister, becoming the first woman in Nepal’s history to hold the position.

Karki’s appointment came after weeks of Generation Z–led anti-corruption protests that forced the resignation of longtime leader K. P. Sharma Oli. As Nepal faced a political vacuum, activists seeking a neutral and principled leader put forward Karki’s name, citing her record of integrity and independence.

In a move that underscored the influence of Nepal’s digitally connected youth, members of a Discord protest server held a poll, selecting Karki from among five proposed candidates. The choice was later formalized through talks with the Nepalese army, which sought stability during a volatile moment in the country’s democratic journey.

On September 12, following the dissolution of Nepal’s Federal Parliament, Karki officially assumed office under Article 61 of the Constitution of Nepal. Her swearing-in marked not just a political transition but a symbolic victory for the protesters, many of whom view her appointment as proof that public pressure can bring meaningful change.

Political analysts say Karki’s leadership represents a break from traditional power dynamics. With a reputation for political neutrality and anti-corruption rulings during her time on the Supreme Court, she is seen as a stabilizing figure tasked with guiding Nepal toward fresh elections and restoring public trust in governance.

Karki’s appointment has already sparked celebration among reform-minded citizens and women’s rights advocates, who view her as a role model for gender equality in leadership. As she begins her tenure, Karki faces the challenge of balancing popular expectations, stabilizing the political environment, and initiating long-term reforms in one of South Asia’s most fragile democracies.

Behind the Bench: The Personal Life of Sushila Karki

Beyond her trailblazing career as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and now interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki has lived a personal life that reflects courage, conviction, and deep-rooted values.

Karki married Durga Prasad Subedi, a youth wing leader of the Nepali Congress party, best known for his involvement in the 1973 Royal Nepal Airlines DHC-6 hijacking, a daring act that became part of Nepal’s political history. The two met as students at Banaras Hindu University in India, where Subedi, who was also her tutor at the time, inspired her intellectually as well as personally.

The couple’s relationship, forged during an era of political turbulence, has often been cited as a reflection of their shared commitment to democratic ideals. They have at least one child, though Karki has largely kept her family life private, preferring to let her public service define her legacy.

Fluent in her native Nepali, Karki also speaks some Hindi and English, a skillset that has aided her in both regional diplomacy and judicial exchanges.

Friends and colleagues describe Karki’s personal life as grounded and unpretentious, with the former Chief Justice balancing her high-profile career with a devotion to family and democratic values. Her story shows that even at the highest levels of leadership, personal principles and quiet strength can leave a lasting impression.