Kenyan women leaders Esther Passaris and Justina Wamae have congratulated Sushila Karki on her historic appointment as Nepal’s first female Prime Minister.

The milestone has drawn attention globally, with Kenyan leaders celebrating Karki’s achievement and reflecting on its wider significance.

The appointment follows a week of youth-led protests that resulted in the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, as detailed by The Guardian.

Messages of support

Esther Passaris, Nairobi’s Women Representative, shared her message on X, saying, “Warmest congratulations to Her Excellency Sushila Karki, Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister. As a woman leader, I celebrate this historic milestone that inspires us all to keep breaking barriers. Wishing her success as she steers Nepal toward peace, progress, and prosperity.”

Justina Wamae, former Roots Party running mate, also took to X on September 13, 2025, stating, “Sushila Karki (born in Nepal on 7 June 1952) is a Nepalese jurist, author, and politician who is serving as the interim Prime Minister of Nepal.

She was voted on Discord, a gaming app. The first challenge is dealing with youth expectations.” Wamae highlighted the digital and youth-driven process that led to Karki’s selection.

Karki’s appointment

Karki, a former chief justice known for her anti-corruption stance, was sworn in late on Friday to lead an interim government after Oli resigned. The protests began when tens of thousands of young people opposed a social media ban and systemic corruption.

Violence during the protests, according to The Guardian, left 21 civilians dead, and several government buildings and leaders’ homes were set ablaze, leading to Oli’s military-assisted exit.

Negotiations involving the president, army chief Ashok Raj Sigdel, and Gen Z representatives resulted in Karki emerging as the consensus interim leader. She received support from Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah and now faces the task of addressing the youth’s demands and investigating the protest incidents.

Regional reflections

In Kenya, political commentator Willis Otieno drew parallels with Nepal, noting potential lessons for governance and public engagement. Wamae urged caution, stating on September 12, 2025, “Forcing government leaders through arson and anarchy cannot be the solution to better service delivery.”

She encouraged Kenyans to participate in political processes and vote responsibly ahead of 2027. Other leaders, including Saboti MP Caleb Amisi and Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa, have emphasised accountability, reflecting ongoing regional discussions inspired by Nepal’s political developments.