Nepal’s interim Prime Minister Sushila Karki on Friday pledged sweeping reforms to curb corruption, create jobs, and improve living standards in the wake of violent youth-led protests that toppled the previous government earlier this month.

Addressing the nation on Constitution Day, which marks the charter’s promulgation a decade ago, Karki said the demonstrations reflected the frustrations of a new generation.

“The protests reflect the aspirations of the young generation, a growing level of popular awareness and dissatisfaction over the rising corruption,” she said. “We must accept that these protests erupted because of failures to uphold the spirit of good governance and prosperity enshrined in the constitution.”

The remarks marked Karki’s first public address since assuming office last week. A former Supreme Court chief justice, she is the first woman to lead Nepal and has been tasked with overseeing parliamentary elections scheduled for March 5.

The protests — branded “Gen Z demonstrations” by organizers — left 72 dead and more than 2,100 injured, while arson and vandalism damaged major government institutions, including the prime minister’s office, Supreme Court, parliament building, and private properties such as luxury hotels.

Karki, 73, who won backing from youth leaders for her strong anti-corruption stance, vowed to deliver on promises of transparency, accountability, and economic opportunity. She has already appointed three reform-minded ministers to her interim cabinet.

“The government is committed to creating employment opportunities, raising quality of life, ensuring transparency in governance, controlling corruption, and driving development,” she said.

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