Kathmandu, Sep 12: Talks to appoint an interim prime minister in Nepal were delayed on Friday as political parties and the Gen Z-led protest movement continued internal discussions. A meeting scheduled at President Ram Chandra Paudel’s residence at 9 am was postponed by several hours to allow parties more time to reach consensus.
President Paudel has been holding intensive discussions with various political factions overnight to find common ground. The main point of contention is whether a new prime minister can be appointed without dissolving parliament, while the Gen Z movement insists on dissolution before any interim government is formed. Constitutionally, only a sitting member of parliament can be appointed PM, adding further complexity to the situation.
After negotiations, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has emerged as a candidate acceptable to both protesting activists and political parties. Karki has expressed willingness to assume the role, but agreement on the parliamentary approval process is still pending.
The push for an interim government follows two days of anti-corruption protests led by Gen Z activists, who had mobilized after the government temporarily blocked 26 social media platforms, including Facebook. Demonstrations escalated into violence on Monday, resulting in at least 19 deaths and over 200 injuries, with the death toll later rising to 36, including police personnel.
Protesters breached security perimeters, entering the parliament in Baneshwor and setting fires, before moving on to other key locations, including Singha Durbar and the Supreme Court. The Nepali army has since facilitated dialogue between Gen Z leaders and political parties.
President Paudel has consulted constitutional experts to ensure any interim appointment complies with legal procedures. Karki has also held repeated talks with the president and top military officials, signaling her readiness to lead the caretaker government.
Nepal remains in a state of political uncertainty as negotiations continue and legal frameworks are reviewed for the appointment of an interim prime minister.