NEPAL’S new prime minister took office today, calling for “calm and co-operation to rebuild” the Himalayan nation after days of protests last week left at least 72 people dead and destroyed government buildings and politicians’ homes.

Sushila Karki, the country’s first female prime minister, told top officials gathered at her temporary office that families of slain protesters will receive monetary compensation of one million rupees (£5,218) and that those injured would be taken care of, state TV reported.

“We all need to get together to rebuild the country,” Ms Karki said, pledging to work to get the South Asian nation back on track.

The massive demonstrations began on September 8, fuelled by a short-lived social media ban, and anger at widespread corruption and poverty while the children of political leaders, known as “nepo kids,” seemed to enjoy luxurious lifestyles.

Ms Karki, 73, was named the new prime minister on September 12. She was a popular figure while serving as the court’s only female chief justice in 2016 and 2017, and was known for her stance against corruption in government.