Sadichchha Silwal, Advocate, National Policy Forum
When KP Sharma Oli resigned, Nepal was thrown into a leadership crisis. For many, the first hope was Balen Shah but when he declined, the country was left with a vacuum, raising fears of external influence, changes in the system and even the play of pro-monarch forces. In that moment, Gen Z had to think beyond age and look for someone who carried both trust and experience. She was not their first choice but there was no better alternative than her. That is why they chose a 73-year-old because Sushila Karki had already proven her fearless attitude and integrity. Her time as Chief Justice had shown her courage. She delivered landmark decisions and never hesitated to speak against those in power. For a generation that valued authenticity and accountability, she became a symbol of trust. Gen Z did not choose her because of her age, they chose her because of her credibility, character, and ability to steer the nation through crisis. The fact that she committed to holding elections within six months further strengthened that faith.
Aanchal Lohani, Advocate & Managing Director, Justitia Legal Service
I believe the focus should not be on the age of Hon. Sushila Karki but on the fact that the Nepali GenZ have strategically decided on a leader figure who is not only neutral but also has institutional expertise. The demand of the movement was to put an end to corruption so very rampant in the Nepali system. In all this, a generational leader whom we cannot assume to be impartial would have defeated the purpose. At such time of national crisis, she stood as a symbol of stability. I want to emphasize on the fact that her understanding of the system and the constitution is an invaluable asset. Her role moving forward will help us transition and pave the way for the next election. Our vision as citizens is not only to witness a shift but a change in governance as a whole and towards this, the GenZ have trusted Hon. Sushila Karki’s leadership. We hope to see a team that not only understands why the outrage sparked but is willing and capable of bringing the change we so hope to see. A team that is inclusive, competent and qualified.
Chandra Bahadur Lama, Treasurer, Society of Translators Nepal & Secondary Teacher, Sanskriti International School
Now in their twenties, Gen Z remembers politics through a lens of disillusionment. Not having any experience in power, their hallmark is a visceral hatred of the establishment. It leaves a gap for leaders to emerge and one that is not based on traditional political careers but that which are looked upon with suspicion.
In all this, someone like Sushila Karki, despite being elderly, can appear as an enticing option. She does not appear as one of the older politicians of the corrupt and ineffectual system excoriated by this younger generation. She brings a special kind of moral authority, and for Gen Z, her age is not a hindrance, it is what they want, wisdom and integrity, the likes of which was lost under the last administration. She is not a return to old politics; she is one that will rise on a platform which we Nepalis can trust.
Kokila KC, Proprietor, Kokila Consultancy Service
The Nepali Gen Z has made history by dissolving a government led by a corrupt Prime Minister and appointing Sushila Karki, a 73-year-old former Supreme Court Justice as our first female Prime Minister. In my opinion, the reason behind Gen Z choosing her as their interim leader is her integrity and wisdom.
All through her time in the judicial sector, she has been praised for her professional honesty and an uncompromising adherence to principles and values. She is known for her solid stance against corruption, fearlessly calling out leaders who abuse their power of authority which aligns directly with the purpose of this Gen Z revolution.
Furthermore, the recent developments after the protest demonstrate that the youth of today are not interested in holding any kind of political position or power themselves. Rather, they are the watchdogs and whistleblowers to warn the corrupt people in power that when push comes to shove, they will retaliate. These politicians failed to address the people’s concerns such as freedom of speech through social media ban, unemployment, lack of infrastructure, political instability, and overall lack of development of the country. I also believe that the recent handover of county’s supreme power to a senior woman beholding capabilities to lead the nation is a tribute to our rich culture of honoring and respecting elders.
