Nepal Reports Over $586 Million in Economic Losses Following Anti-Graft Protests That Toppled Prime Minister Oli

LN24 — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:01:48 +0000

Nepal’s government announced on Friday that the anti corruption protests that swept the country in September and ultimately forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli to resign have caused more than $586 million in economic losses to the nation’s $42 billion economy. The youth led demonstrations, among the largest anti-graft movements in Nepal’s recent political history, erupted after mounting public frustration over alleged corruption, poor governance, and claims of mismanagement within the Oli administration. What began as peaceful rallies quickly escalated into nationwide unrest, disrupting key sectors including transportation, retail, tourism, and local manufacturing. The protests turned deadly, with 77 people killed and more than 2,000 injured in clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Government officials said the economic impact reflects widespread business closures, halted commercial activity, infrastructure damage, and the high cost of emergency response. Authorities added that policy reforms aimed at rebuilding public trust and strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms will be prioritised in the months ahead as Nepal works to stabilise its fragile political environment

Nepal Protesters Back Ex-Chief Justice Sushila Karki as Interim Leader

LN24 — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 08:07:14 +0000

Protest leaders in Nepal have proposed Sushila Karki, the country’s former chief justice and the only woman ever to serve in that role, as the head of an interim government, following the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli amid escalating anti-corruption unrest.

Karki’s name was put forward during talks between protest representatives and senior military officials in Kathmandu, as demonstrators seek a respected, neutral figure to guide Nepal through its current political crisis.

“Justice Karki is widely trusted and non-partisan. She represents the kind of stability the country needs right now,” said Rehan Raj Dangal, a spokesperson for the protest movement.

Political Turmoil and Demands for Change

The proposal comes just days after Prime Minister Oli stepped down in the face of nationwide protests that erupted after a controversial social media ban and were further fueled by allegations of corruption and economic mismanagement. At least 19 people died during clashes with police, and tensions remain high despite curfews and heavy security deployments.

The protesters’ call for Karki who led Nepal’s Supreme Court from 2016 to 2017 reflects a rising public demand for clean governance and institutional reform.

Military’s Role Unclear

So far, the Nepalese military has not confirmed whether it will endorse Karki’s appointment. Analysts say the military’s support will be crucial in stabilizing the transition and preventing further unrest.

Observers also note that while Karki is widely admired for her integrity, forming a transitional cabinet could be complicated by political party rivalries and constitutional limitations.

Who Is Sushila Karki?

Former Chief Justice of Nepal (2016–2017)
First and only woman to hold the role
Known for: anti-corruption rulings, judicial independence, and reformist stance
Retired from judiciary but remains a symbol of accountability and justice

What’s Next?