Nepal’s acting premier promises to investigate vandalism during protests

ISTANBUL

Sushila Karki officially assumed office as Nepal’s interim prime minister on Sunday, pledging to investigate violence in youth-led protests and hold elections as part of her government's roadmap.

Karki, the country's first woman premier who previously served as chief justice, was sworn in on Friday by President Ramchandra Paudel in response to protesters’ demands after the ousting of the elected government of KP Sharma Oli.

She began her official duties from the Home Ministry building in Singha Durbar, as the prime minister’s office had been relocated there after the previous building was set on fire during the protests.

Speaking to the media after taking charge, she termed violence during the recent "Gen Z" protests criminal acts against the country, adding that the government would investigate the vandalism targeting the parliament building, the Supreme Court, the prime minister's office, business complexes, and private property.

Chief Secretary Eknarayan Aryal said the government recognized those killed in the "Gen Z" movement as martyrs, with each affected family receiving financial support.

Aryal said hospitals had also been instructed to offer free medical treatment to the injured.

Meanwhile, family members of several protesters who were killed during violent protests said they will not accept the bodies of their loved ones until their demands are fulfilled.

The relatives, along with several injured, gathered outside the prime minister's official residence in Baluwatar on Sunday, seeking to meet her.

Karki announced Rs 1 million ($7,000) in compensation per victim. However, families say more comprehensive measures are needed to properly recognize the sacrifice of those killed.

At least 51 people were killed and many others were injured in the mass protests this week, triggered by a ban on social media platforms. The protests evolved into a broader movement against alleged corruption and nepotism among the political elite.

In a related development, the US and China, which share a border with Nepal, congratulated Karki on her appointment as head of the interim government.

China stands ready to work with Nepal to enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and further advance bilateral relations, a foreign ministry spokesperson said.

The US also welcomed Karki's appointment and the restoration of "calm and a peaceful" resolution following last week’s tragic events.

Recognizing the roles of President Paudel and army chief Ashok Raj Sigdel in restoring order and facilitating a peaceful transition of civilian government, the US Embassy in Kathmandu said Washington looks forward to working with the interim government in the months ahead as preparations for new elections in March move forward.

*Aamir Latif contributed to this story.