Power shift in Nepal? Balen Shah throws weight behind Sushila Karki

Nepal’s political turmoil took a dramatic turn on Thursday after Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah publicly endorsed former Chief Justice Sushila Karki to lead a possible interim government , intensifying calls for sweeping political change.

Mayor Shah, one of Nepal’s most influential young leaders, echoed the voices of Gen Z activists , who have demanded fresh leadership amid mounting disillusionment with the country’s established parties.

“Change must come with patience and responsibility,” Shah said, urging protesters not to let frustration spill into chaos. His statement comes as Nepal struggles with a paralyzed parliament, corruption scandals, and growing street demonstrations led by students and youth movements.

Former CJ Karki, Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and a respected figure for her uncompromising stance on judicial integrity, is being touted as a consensus candidate to guide the nation through the crisis.

Analysts say Shah’s endorsement could give new momentum to the idea of an interim setup, which has until now faced skepticism from mainstream political parties. With trust in traditional leadership at a historic low, his backing may ignite broader support across the nation.Nepal’s political fate now hinges on whether Karki agrees to step into the role — and whether the fractious political elite will cede ground to an outsider.