The Impressive TimesBeijing [China], September 14 : China on Sunday congratulated Sushila Karki on her appointment as the interim Prime Minister of Nepal, marking a significant political shift for the Himalayan nation.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated, “China congratulates Madam Sushila Karki on becoming Prime Minister of Nepal’s interim government.” The remarks emphasized the “time-honoured friendship” between the two neighbors and China’s readiness to deepen ties.
In a statement shared by the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria, Beijing reiterated:
“China and Nepal share a time-honoured friendship. China, as always, respects the development path chosen independently by the people of Nepal. We stand ready to work with Nepal to promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, enhance exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and further advance bilateral relations.”
Karki, 73, a former Chief Justice of Nepal, officially assumes office at Singha Durbar on Sunday morning. Her appointment follows the resignation of KP Sharma Oli after days of violent protests triggered by a ban on social media platforms and growing frustration among Gen Z over corruption, economic disparity, and political stagnation.
Chosen through a public vote held by Gen Z leaders on Discord, Karki emerged as the most acceptable figure across generational and political lines. Protesters endorsed her for her integrity and independence, making her the first Nepali leader to rise to power directly through a youth-led digital democratic process.
According to The Kathmandu Post, Karki has begun consultations with advisors and leaders from the Gen Z movement to finalize her Cabinet. Though she has authority over all 25 ministries, she reportedly plans to limit her team to no more than 15 ministers, in line with civil society and protester demands for a streamlined government.
Names under consideration include legal expert Om Prakash Aryal, former army officer Balananda Sharma, retired justice Anand Mohan Bhattarai, Madhav Sundar Khadka, Asheem Man Singh Basnyat, and energy expert Kulman Ghising. Parallel discussions are also being held by Gen Z leaders via Discord to recommend reform-minded candidates.
On Friday, Nepal’s Parliament was formally dissolved, and fresh elections were scheduled for March 5, 2026. The decision came during the first cabinet meeting chaired by Karki late that evening, signaling the beginning of a six-month transitional government tasked with steering the nation toward stability and polls.
China’s swift congratulatory message underlines Beijing’s interest in maintaining stability in Nepal, a country it regards as a key partner in South Asia. As Nepal navigates its political transition, the support of its neighbors, including both China and India, will remain crucial.
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