Nepal’s Newly Appointed Prime Minister Sushila Karki Assumes Office Amid National Hopes for Stability

KalimNews, Kathmandu, Sep 13, 2025 : Nepal’s newly appointed caretaker Prime Minister Sushila Karki, former Chief Justice of Nepal, assumed office today, marking a significant transition in the country's political scene. Appointed following a vote in Parliament, Prime Minister Karki’s appointment comes at a time of political uncertainty, and her leadership is expected to guide Nepal through the upcoming election period.

While the appointment of Karki has been welcomed by many as a step towards stability, there is growing attention on the fact that she has not yet appointed any ministers to her interim government. This move has sparked curiosity and speculation about her approach to governance in the lead-up to the upcoming general elections.

Prime Minister Sushila Karki's Statement

In her inaugural address, Prime Minister Karki highlighted her commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, while also working towards strengthening Nepal’s democratic processes. “I am honored to serve as the caretaker Prime Minister during such an important time in Nepal’s political journey. My primary focus will be to ensure a smooth and transparent election process. My government will act with impartiality, ensuring that all political parties are given a fair platform.”

Prime Minister Karki, who made history as Nepal's first female Chief Justice, has earned respect for her judicial tenure, known for her strong stance on transparency and justice. As caretaker Prime Minister, she holds a unique position — her role is to oversee government operations until the general elections take place, but without making significant policy changes or appointing a full Cabinet.

Absence of Appointments in Her Ministry

As of now, Prime Minister Karki has not appointed any ministers to her interim government, a move that has raised several questions. The decision is seen as a way to maintain the neutrality of the government ahead of the elections, with critics and analysts alike noting that it ensures her administration will be devoid of political influence.

Political experts believe that Karki's decision not to form a full cabinet may be a strategic move to avoid any possible accusations of favoritism or bias, as the country heads toward the general election. The absence of a Cabinet may also be a sign that her government intends to focus solely on electoral duties and maintaining essential governance functions until the election results are finalized.

However, some opposition leaders have voiced concerns, arguing that the government’s lack of a full Cabinet could delay important decisions related to public welfare, development projects, and administrative reforms. “While we understand the caretaker nature of this government, it is crucial that essential decisions are made to ensure the country’s stability, especially in times of crisis,” said an opposition leader.

Focus on Election Transparency

Prime Minister Karki’s leadership is expected to be crucial in overseeing the upcoming elections, and her administration will likely focus on ensuring the elections are free, fair, and transparent. Many are hopeful that under her stewardship, Nepal will experience a smoother electoral process, with the necessary checks and balances in place to avoid political manipulation.

Public Reaction

The public reaction to Karki’s appointment has been mixed. On one hand, many Nepalese citizens appreciate the historical significance of having a former Chief Justice in the role of Prime Minister. On the other hand, there are growing concerns about her government's ability to address pressing issues without a full Cabinet.

“I think she’s a good choice as Prime Minister because of her experience in the judiciary, but I’m concerned about how decisions will be made without ministers,” said, a resident of Kathmandu.

Challenges Ahead

While Prime Minister Karki's role as caretaker leader is primarily focused on overseeing the election process, the government still faces several challenges. Key issues such as economic stability, public services, and national security will require careful handling. Moreover, the lack of a Cabinet means that many ongoing projects and policies may be put on hold until after the elections.

One of the most pressing concerns is the preparation for natural disasters, especially as Nepal heads into the monsoon season. As the country continues to face challenges related to infrastructure, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, many are questioning how the government will address these concerns without a full-fledged Cabinet.

International Community’s Response

The international community has expressed cautious optimism regarding Prime Minister Karki's appointment. With her history as a former Chief Justice, Karki’s appointment has been viewed positively by foreign diplomats, who hope her leadership will help maintain political stability in the region.

The United States, India, and China have all issued statements calling for fair elections and peaceful transitions of power. The international community remains keen on continued cooperation with Nepal, particularly on issues such as infrastructure development, trade relations, and disaster preparedness.

Nepal's new Interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki faces an uphill task as she assumes office with limited powers and the responsibility of ensuring a smooth election process. While her appointment is seen as a step toward political stability, her decision not to appoint any ministers has left many wondering about the government's capacity to address the country's pressing needs. All eyes will be on Prime Minister Karki and her administration to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted with fairness and transparency, while navigating the challenges that lie ahead.