Nepal Crisis: Army Backs Sushila Karki as Interim Executive Leader

Nepal has entered a new political phase after violent protests toppled the KP Sharma Oli government. Two days of chaos across the country forced the army to step in and take control. Law and order collapsed in several districts, pushing Nepal into its most fragile state in years.

Amid this uncertainty, Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel moved swiftly. He convinced former Chief Justice Sushila Karki to accept the role of interim executive leader. A major meeting at Army Headquarters is scheduled to finalize her appointment and the roadmap for the new government.

Army’s Late-Night Strategy

According to insiders, General Sigdel held several rounds of discussions on Tuesday night. He met leaders of the Gen Z movement and other key figures until past midnight. Around 2 a.m., he personally visited Sushila Karki at her residence in Dhapasi.

At first, Karki declined to take responsibility. She was reluctant to step into a role filled with risk and political pressure. However, after nearly 15 hours of persuasion and appeals from Gen Z groups, she finally agreed. Youth leaders formally requested her to lead, adding legitimacy to Sigdel’s plan.

Mayor Balendra Shah Extends Support

Kathmandu’s Mayor Balendra Shah, also known as Balen Shah, was initially seen as a contender for the interim role. His popularity among urban youth made him an attractive choice.

However, Shah publicly backed Sushila Karki. He declared that she was the most suitable figure to guide Nepal through this difficult transition. His support cleared doubts and strengthened Karki’s candidacy. With Shah on board, the path to a Bangladesh-style interim governance model became clearer.

Army’s Priorities: Restoring Order

General Sigdel emphasized that the immediate goal is restoring law and order. Looting and violence have shaken public confidence, and security remains fragile. The army wants to stop anarchy before political negotiations proceed.

He also stressed the importance of dialogue. Political parties and youth groups must sit together and decide the country’s future direction. The army has invited suggestions for creating a common minimum program. Sources indicate that the interim government could be announced by Thursday or Friday.

Nepal’s First Woman Chief Justice in Leadership

Sushila Karki holds historic significance in Nepal’s judiciary. She became the country’s first woman Chief Justice and served until June 2017. Her tenure was not without controversy. Before her retirement, opposition parties filed an impeachment motion against her. That motion was withdrawn after she stepped down.

Now, with army backing, she is set to lead Nepal through a new constitutional process. Analysts believe that the decade-old constitution has become ineffective. Karki’s leadership will focus on drafting reforms that can address present challenges.

Army’s Warning Earlier This Year

This development comes months after a warning from General Sigdel. In March 2025, he cautioned then-Prime Minister Oli against arresting or detaining former King Gyanendra Shah. The statement signaled that the army would not remain silent on political decisions threatening stability.

Since 2006, when Nepal abolished monarchy and became a secular republic, the Royal Nepal Army was renamed Nepal Army. The institution declared neutrality from politics but has intervened during major crises.

Historical Precedents of Army Interventions

Nepal’s political history shows repeated military involvement. In May 2009, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known as Prachanda, tried to dismiss army chief Rookmangad Katwal. The move sparked a constitutional clash. President Ram Baran Yadav rejected Prachanda’s decision, forcing him to resign.

That episode demonstrated the army’s deep influence in governance. Today, under General Sigdel, the military is again shaping Nepal’s direction. This time, however, the approach is different. Instead of taking executive power directly, the army is placing Sushila Karki as a civilian face for the interim authority.

Gen Z Movement Gains Recognition

The Gen Z movement has been at the forefront of protests. Frustrated with corruption and lack of opportunities, young Nepalis took to the streets in huge numbers. Their role in forcing political change cannot be ignored.

By engaging with these youth leaders, General Sigdel has acknowledged their importance. Their endorsement of Karki shows a generational shift in Nepalese politics. It also reflects the demand for new leadership beyond traditional political elites.

A Bangladesh-Style Governance Model

Observers note that Nepal is now preparing for a governance structure similar to Bangladesh. In such a model, the military supervises an interim administration, while civilian leaders manage day-to-day affairs. This arrangement is seen as temporary but necessary for stability.

The plan aims to ensure that law and order are restored, political dialogue resumes, and constitutional reforms are initiated. Supporters believe this model will prevent further unrest, while critics fear it may weaken democracy.

International Attention on Nepal

The sudden changes in Nepal have drawn attention from neighboring countries and global powers. India, China, the United States, and European nations have strong interests in Nepal’s stability.

Diplomats are closely monitoring the army-backed interim plan. International recognition of Sushila Karki’s leadership will be crucial for aid, trade, and legitimacy. For now, most observers are cautious, waiting to see how inclusive the interim government will be.

Constitutional Challenges Ahead

Nepal’s current constitution, introduced ten years ago, has faced criticism from multiple groups. Federalism, minority rights, and governance structures remain disputed issues. The recent protests revealed deep dissatisfaction with existing arrangements.

Sushila Karki is expected to oversee reforms that address these concerns. Her background as Chief Justice gives her credibility in handling legal and constitutional matters. The army’s support provides her with authority to guide the process.

Obstacles Facing the Interim Government

Despite growing support, the interim administration will face significant challenges. Restoring public trust after violent protests will not be easy. Youth groups demand immediate reforms, while traditional parties may resist losing power.

The economy adds another layer of difficulty. Protests have disrupted business and tourism, key sectors for Nepal’s growth. Without quick stabilization, financial hardships could deepen frustration. International assistance may be necessary to keep the system afloat.

Role of Balendra Shah and Urban Politics

Mayor Balendra Shah’s support for Karki highlights the role of urban politics in shaping Nepal’s future. Shah, popular among youth and social media users, has become a symbol of modern leadership. His backing signals that even ambitious leaders are willing to prioritize stability over personal ambition.

This unity across generations and ideologies could help the interim government gain public trust.

Looking Back at Nepal’s Democratic Journey

Since the end of monarchy in 2006, Nepal’s democratic experiment has been turbulent. Coalition governments, constitutional crises, and frequent leadership changes have weakened institutions. The current crisis is the latest reminder of fragile governance.

The appointment of Sushila Karki as interim executive leader marks a new chapter. Whether it becomes a foundation for lasting stability or just another temporary arrangement will depend on how effectively reforms are carried out.

Nepal now stands at a crossroads. The army has intervened again, but this time it is promoting a civilian figure to lead. With Sushila Karki stepping forward, supported by youth groups and leaders like Balendra Shah, hopes for stability are rising.

The priorities are clear: restore law and order, begin political dialogue, and start constitutional reforms. Yet the path will be difficult. The interim government must navigate public anger, economic challenges, and international scrutiny.

For Nepalese citizens, the expectation is simple: peace, accountability, and inclusive governance. The coming months will reveal if the new arrangement can deliver or if Nepal’s cycle of instability continues.