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Karki said that her immediate focus would be on supporting the families of the young people who died during the protests

Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki has been appointed as Nepal’s interim head, just a day after mass protests brought down the government over allegations of corruption and nepotism. Karki, the first woman to serve as Nepal’s Chief Justice, will now lead the country through a period of transition until fresh elections are held.

Her name was finalised during a virtual meeting of the Gen-Z movement on Wednesday morning. The youth-led group, which spearheaded the protests, decided to back Karki to guide Nepal through the ongoing crisis.

In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, Karki said she is prepared to take on the role. “The Gen-Z group led the recent movement in Nepal and that they trusted her to lead the government for a short period," she said.

Karki noted that her immediate priority would be to honour and support the families of those who lost their lives during the protests. “Our immediate focus will be something for the young people who died during the protest," she added.

She confirmed that young members of the movement—“girls and boys", as she described—voted in favour of her name. “I have accepted their request to lead the interim government," she told CNN-News18.

Reflecting on Nepal’s political history, Karki admitted that the current situation is difficult. “There have always been problems in Nepal from the past. The situation is very tough now," she said.

Despite the challenges, she remained hopeful and committed. “We will work together for the development of Nepal," she said, adding, “We will try to establish a new beginning for the country."

Speaking about Nepal’s ties with India, Karki said the relationship is strong and has been so for many years. “There is a lot of respect and love for India. India has helped Nepal a lot," she said.

“I have good relations with Indian leaders. I especially want to say, main Modi ji ko namaskar karti hoon (I greet Prime Minister Modi). I have a very good impression of Modi ji," she said.

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