Nepal Faces Political Transition: House of Representatives Dissolved, Elections Planned

In a significant political move, Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Poudel dissolved the House of Representatives on Friday, acting on the recommendation of Prime Minister Sushila Karki. The dissolution was effective from 11:00 PM on September 12, 2025. The President also declared that new parliamentary elections will be held on March 21, 2026. Sushila Karki, a former Chief Justice, was sworn in as Prime Minister, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Nepal. She will head an interim government. This decision brings an end to a period of political unrest, prompted by the resignation of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli following youth-led protests. These protests were directed against perceived corruption and restrictions on social media. The President’s decision to appoint an acting Prime Minister followed discussions with leaders from key political parties, legal experts, and prominent members of civil society. Celebrations erupted among Gen Z groups outside the President’s office in Kathmandu following the news of Karki’s appointment. Former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai was present at the swearing-in ceremony. The Gen Z group’s protests were instrumental in forcing the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. The protesters demanded an end to corruption, an end to bias, and the removal of social media restrictions. The recent protests in Nepal, triggered by these issues, resulted in the deaths of at least 51 individuals, including an Indian citizen. The new Prime Minister, Sushila Karki, will oversee the organization of the new parliamentary elections within a six-month period. The oath-taking ceremony was attended by various dignitaries.