KATHMANDU, Nepal — In a significant political shift, Nepal's President Ram Chandra Poudel appointed former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the interim prime minister on Friday. Karki, who is 73 years old, becomes the first woman to lead the government in the Himalayan nation. Her appointment follows a week of intense protests that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli.

Karki, who served as the only female chief justice from 2016 to 2017, was sworn in during a small ceremony at the presidential residence. The event was broadcast on state television, where politicians, officials, and foreign diplomats congratulated her.

The protests began on Monday in Kathmandu over a controversial social media ban, which has since been lifted. Demonstrators expressed broader grievances, including anger over government corruption and the perceived privilege of political elites. The unrest escalated, resulting in violent clashes between protesters and police, with demonstrators attacking government buildings and setting fire to the parliament and the presidential residence.

The violence has claimed at least 51 lives, including 21 protesters, nine prisoners, and three police officers, according to police reports. Many of the deceased were victims of police gunfire during the protests. The situation prompted the military to take control of the capital on Tuesday night, as they began negotiations with protesters and government officials to establish an interim government.

As the protests continued, shops began to reopen in Kathmandu, signaling a return to normalcy. However, some roads remained blocked, and a military curfew was enforced to maintain order. The military, which has historically been popular in Nepal, has been tasked with restoring calm amid the unrest.

Karki's appointment comes at a time when Nepal is grappling with political instability and economic challenges. Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, the country has faced ongoing issues, including high unemployment rates that drive many citizens to seek work abroad.

The protests, dubbed the "protest of Gen Z," reflect a growing discontent among young people who are frustrated with the lack of opportunities and the influence of political dynasties. As the new interim prime minister, Karki faces the challenge of addressing these grievances while restoring stability in the country.