Bangladesh's Yunus Congratulates Nepal Interim PM Sushila Karki: 'As A Longstanding Friend...'

Last Updated:September 13, 2025, 15:58 IST

Sushila Karki took charge as Nepal's interim PM after violent protests triggered by a social media ban that left 51 dead in Nepal.

Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Nepal Interim PM Sushila Karki. (File)

Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Saturday congratulated Nepal’s newly-appointed Prime Minister Sushila Karki after widespread protests over corruption and economic mismanagement that toppled the previous KP Sharma Oli-led government in the country.

“On behalf of the Government and the People of Bangladesh and on my own behalf, I extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency on your appointment as Prime Minister of Nepal," said Yunus in a letter.

“Your assumption of this high office, at a critical and challenging time, is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in you by the people of Nepal. As a longstanding friend and neighbour of Nepal, we are confident that under your able leadership and guidance, Nepal and its resilient people will continue to progress on the path of peace, development and stability."

Yunus also said he looked forward to working closely with Nepal to “further strengthen the deep-rooted ties of friendship, corruption and mutual respect that exist between our two countries". He also expressed condolences for the loss of lives during the recent protests in Nepal.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Sushila Karki on assuming charge as the interim Prime Minister of Nepal. Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel administered the oath of office to Karki at the President’s Office on Friday.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “I extend my best wishes to Right Hon. Mrs. Sushila Karki on assuming office as the Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. India remains firmly committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of the people of Nepal."

The recent unrest in Nepal, reflecting the frustration of the citizens with the government, was triggered by a ban on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). This move not only restricted communication but also intensified existing anger toward widespread corruption and lack of economic opportunities.

The protests became violent quickly. Demonstrators set fire to the Supreme Court, parliament, and government buildings. At least 51 people lost their lives, and hundreds were injured in clashes with the police and army. The situation worsened to the point that the Nepal Army was called in to restore order.

Notably, public fury also toppled a government in Bangladesh last year, when student-led protests started with anger against rules that limited the number of civil service jobs based on merit. They morphed into a massive nationwide uprising in July last year that culminated in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hundreds of people, mostly students, were killed in violent protests.

News world Bangladesh's Yunus Congratulates Nepal Interim PM Sushila Karki: 'As A Longstanding Friend...'

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