Nepal began returning to normalcy on Saturday as the nationwide curfew, imposed during days of violent unrest, was lifted just a day after former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as the country’s interim Prime Minister.
The Nepalese Army confirmed it would not extend the curfew beyond 6 am, allowing public transport and long-distance buses from Kathmandu to resume operations. However, according to Senior Superintendent of Police Bishwo Adhikari, some sensitive zones in the Kathmandu Valley will remain restricted to prevent flare-ups.
Karki, 73, was appointed interim PM by President Ramchandra Paudel on Friday following the resignation of KP Sharma Oli amid widespread Gen Z-led protests over corruption, inequality, and the government’s ban on social media platforms. Protesters had endorsed her nomination, citing her integrity and independence.
Her selection — backed both by youth movements and traditional parties — is being seen as a rare moment of political consensus. In fact, Gen Z leaders used Discord polls to rally support for her candidacy.
On Friday night, hours after taking oath, Karki convened her first cabinet meeting, where the decision to dissolve Parliament was approved. Fresh elections are now scheduled for March 5, 2026, with Karki leading a six-month transitional government.
She is set to formally assume office on Sunday and announce her new cabinet. Her swearing-in also marks a historic first: Karki is the first woman Prime Minister of Nepal.
