Nepal: Citizens Demand Constitutional Amendments to End Corruption as Sushila Karki Takes Oath as Interim Prime Minister
In Nepal, a strong demand for constitutional changes has emerged as people across the country call for effective measures to eliminate corruption. Citizens have voiced that newly appointed interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki should initiate key amendments in the constitution to root out corruption and strengthen good governance.
On Friday night, Sushila Karki was officially sworn in as the first female interim Prime Minister of Nepal, bringing an end to weeks of unrest and violent protests that had gripped the nation. The turmoil, which continued for several days, resulted in the tragic loss of 51 lives and left hundreds injured. Her appointment is being viewed as a fresh opportunity to stabilize the nation and pave the way for much-needed reforms.
Citizens’ Expectations: A New Era for Nepal
The people of Nepal are now looking toward Sushila Karki’s leadership with renewed hope. They believe her tenure can mark the beginning of a new era in the country’s political and social landscape.
- Suman Sivakoti, a Kathmandu resident, expressed optimism, saying, “I am hoping that she will start a new era in Nepal. The country needs to be saved, and development should be accelerated under her leadership.”
- Another citizen, Ram Kumar Simkhada, emphasized that the interim government must prioritize good governance and accountability. He highlighted the urgent need to end corruption and wrong practices that have plagued the system for years. He further added that ministers should be chosen from fields like law, education, healthcare, and judiciary, ensuring that experts guide reforms and strengthen administration.
- Leela Luitel, also from Kathmandu, pointed out that Karki, as a former Chief Justice, understands the flaws within the current system and is well-positioned to initiate meaningful constitutional amendments that would help eradicate corruption.
Swearing-in Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan
The oath of office was administered by President Ramchandra Poudel at Sheetal Niwas (Rashtrapati Bhavan). The ceremony was attended by several key figures including Vice President Ramsahay Yadav, Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah, and Chief Justice Prakash Singh Rawat.
President Poudel invoked Section 61 of the Constitution, which empowers him to make such appointments in times of political crisis. According to Section 61(4), the President’s foremost duty is to uphold and protect the Constitution while safeguarding national unity.
Looking Ahead
With Sushila Karki stepping into this historic role, citizens are optimistic that Nepal can move beyond the recent turmoil and embrace an era of transparency, stability, and progress. The widespread call for constitutional reform reflects the people’s deep desire to create a corruption-free Nepal where governance is guided by integrity and expertise.
