Sushila Karki has made history in Nepal twice. In 2016, she became the first woman Chief Justice, known for her honesty and bold decisions against powerful politicians. Now, in 2025, she has taken on a bigger role as Nepal’s first female Prime Minister.
Her rise to Nepal Prime Minister comes during a tough time. Young people, angry about corruption, unfair wealth, and social media restrictions, protested and forced the previous Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, to resign. These young protesters chose Karki to lead an interim government. The Nepal Army helped make this happen quickly, with little celebration but much hope.
For many, Karki as Nepal Prime Minister is a sign of change. She stands for fairness and reform in a country long led by men.
A Life Shaped by Politics
Sushila Karki was born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, a key city in Nepal. Her family was close to the powerful Koirala family of the Nepali Congress, exposing her to ideas about democracy and justice from a young age.
Instead of becoming a doctor as her parents wanted, Karki chose law, a field mostly for men back then. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1972, a Master’s in Political Science from Banaras Hindu University in 1975, and a law degree from Tribhuvan University in 1978. During her time in India, she met her husband, Durga Prasad Subedi, a democracy activist. She also taught law and political science in Dharan from 1985 to 1989.
From Lawyer to Top Judge
Karki started practicing law in 1978 and quickly gained respect for her fairness. She led the Bar Association at the Appellate Court in Biratnagar and became a senior advocate in 2007. In 2009, she joined the Supreme Court as an ad hoc judge, becoming a permanent judge in 2010. In 2016, she made history as Nepal’s first female Chief Justice, serving until 2017.
As Chief Justice, Karki fought corruption fearlessly. She punished powerful people, like convicting a minister and removing a corrupt official. Her decisions upset some politicians, but she stood firm, earning admiration for her honesty.
Facing Political Challenges
In 2017, some political groups tried to remove Karki from her Chief Justice role, saying she was biased. She was briefly suspended, but the Supreme Court overturned this, letting her continue. Many supported her, seeing her as a protector of justice. Her work as Chief Justice showed her commitment to fairness, which now helps her as Nepal Prime Minister.
A Voice for the Constitution
Karki always supported Nepal’s constitution and the separation of powers. In 2013, she opposed a Supreme Court decision that she believed broke constitutional rules. Her stance showed her belief in strong, lawful governance. Now, as Nepal Prime Minister, some question if a former judge should lead the government, but her supporters say the crisis justifies her role.
Chosen by Young People
After Prime Minister Oli resigned due to protests by young people, they picked Karki as Nepal Prime Minister through an online vote. Other candidates, like Kulman Ghising and Balendra Shah, were considered, but Karki’s reputation for fairness won. She now leads a country facing broken institutions, low police morale, and damaged government buildings like Singha Durbar.
Managing Foreign Relations
As Nepal Prime Minister, Karki must handle relations with other countries, especially India. She admires Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and values Nepal’s ties with India. However, she must be careful, as some Nepalis are sensitive about foreign influence.
Challenges at Home
Karki faces big tasks as Nepal Prime Minister. She must fix weak government systems, restore law and order, and hold fair elections. She also needs to investigate corruption, help areas hit by monsoon disasters, and keep the public’s trust. Every decision she makes will be closely watched.
A Symbol of Hope
Sushila Karki’s journey from a law student to Chief Justice to Nepal Prime Minister shows her courage and commitment to fairness. Her leadership is a chance for Nepal to rebuild trust in its government. Young people, especially, see her as a leader who can bring change.
A Historic Moment
Karki’s role as Nepal Prime Minister is a turning point. It shows young people’s power to shape politics and sets a new standard for leaders. Her focus on honesty and reform could change how Nepal’s government works.
A Leader for Tough Times
From fighting corruption as Chief Justice to leading as Nepal Prime Minister, Sushila Karki has always stood for justice. Now, she must stabilize Nepal, rebuild trust, and guide the country through challenges. Her leadership gives hope that Nepal can overcome its problems with integrity and strength.