The movement was led by the youth group Hami Nepal, which mobilized more than 160,000 members online.
According to Al Jazeera, the group created a channel called Youth Against Corruption where more than 10,000 people engaged in debate, while another 6,000 followed through a simultaneous YouTube livestream. Members of the Nepali diaspora also participated.
The discussions, which protest leaders described as 'much more egalitarian' than traditional politics, shortlisted five names: Dharan mayor Harka Sampang, social activist Mahabir Pun, independent politician Sagar Dhakal, online personality Rastra Bimochan Timalsina (known as 'Random Nepali'), and former Chief Justice Sushila Karki.
After hours of deliberation, Karki, 73, emerged as the chosen candidate and was sworn in as interim prime minister. She pledged to lead only until the next parliament is elected, promising to hand over power to elected representatives.
'I am here to ensure a fair transition. My role is temporary, but I will do my best to restore trust,' she said during her oath.
Karki's credibility stems from her past as Nepal's first female chief justice, where she gained respect for resisting political interference. She once jailed a government minister for corruption and survived an impeachment attempt driven by disagreements over judicial appointments.
The youth-driven selection process came after deadly unrest and a harsh crackdown that left at least 72 people dead.
Many young Nepalese had grown disillusioned with mainstream parties, which they viewed as discredited and corrupt. By turning to Discord, they sought to create a more transparent and inclusive alternative. 'The debate was freer, and people could speak without fear,' one organizer said.
Still, questions remain about the risks of such an online process. Concerns were raised about the possibility of manipulation through fake accounts, misinformation, and multiple unofficial social media handles claiming leadership.
To counter this, organizers set up a 'fact checks' sub-room, which verified disputed claims, including rumors about protest negotiator Sudan Gurung.
State authorities had earlier banned Discord and other platforms during the protests but were forced to lift restrictions following public outcry. The interim administration is expected to oversee the country until the next general elections, scheduled for March 5, 2026.
Rania Umutoni
