Nepal’s new interim prime minister named her first cabinet on Monday, as the Himalayan country works to restore peace following violent youth-led anti-corruption demonstrations that deposed the previous government.
In a ceremony televised on television, President Ram Chandra Paudel administered the oath of office to three senior ministers under an outside canopy, against the backdrop of the presidential office that had been damaged by fire.
Protests began on September 8, triggered by a social media ban and fueled by long-standing economic problems, and swiftly intensified, with parliament and important government buildings set on fire.
It was the most severe disturbance since the end of a decade-long civil war and the fall of the monarchy in 2008.
According to government data, at least 72 people were murdered during two days of protests, and 191 are currently recovering in hospitals.
Prime Minister Sushila Karki, the 73-year-old former chief justice, has been tasked with addressing protesters’ demands for a corruption-free future ahead of the March elections.
Om Prakash Aryal, an advocate noted for his lawsuits involving corruption, governance, and human rights, will take on the vital role of home minister, as well as law, justice, and parliamentary affairs.
Kulman Ghising, the former director of the Nepal Electricity Authority, is in charge of energy, infrastructure, transportation, and urban development. He is largely recognized for putting an end to the country’s long-standing load-shedding crisis.
Rameshwor Khanal, a former finance secretary and noted economist, was given the major finance position, a difficult undertaking given the unemployment problems that fueled the revolt.
According to the World Bank, one-fifth of Nepal’s population aged 15 to 24 is unemployed, with a GDP per capita of only $1,447.
