Who is Kulman Ghising? Nepal PM frontrunner known for ending power cuts

On September 11, 2025, the political spotlight in Nepal shifted to Kulman Ghising, a former chief of the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA). After the resignation of KP Sharma Oli as Prime Minister, Ghising has emerged as a strong contender for leading an interim government.

Early life and background

Kulman Ghising is 54 years old. He is best known in Nepal for solving the country’s long-running electricity crisis. As the head of NEA, he became a household name after eliminating prolonged load-shedding in Kathmandu valley. His reforms earned him national recognition and respect across political and social groups.

Removal from NEA

In March 2025, Ghising was dismissed from his position as managing director of NEA. Reports said that he clashed with Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Deepak Khadka, who was unhappy with his independent working style. Despite his dismissal, Ghising remained popular among citizens who valued his role in modernising Nepal’s power supply.

Role during protests

Amid the deadly Gen Z protests that left more than 30 people dead, Ghising called for an interim government with clean leaders and youth participation. Protesters, who demanded accountability and new elections, put forward his name as a possible leader for the interim cabinet. His reputation as a problem-solver gave him credibility among young demonstrators.

Other contenders for Nepal PM

Kulman Ghising is not the only name in discussion.

• Balendra Shah, the mayor of Kathmandu and a rapper-engineer, was seen as the “first choice” of Gen Z. But he declined interest and later backed Sushila Karki, Nepal’s former Chief Justice.

• Sushila Karki initially gained wide support, but some protest leaders later questioned her suitability due to age and constitutional concerns.

• Businessman Durga Prasai also surfaced in talks but said he is not seeking leadership.

Why Ghising matters

Kulman Ghising is respected as a non-political figure with a track record of delivering results. His success in fixing Nepal’s electricity crisis has made him a symbol of efficiency. As Nepal faces political unrest, many see him as a neutral leader who could bring stability during the transition period.