Nepal’s government and judiciary are in conflict after the Constitutional Council recommended Justice Manoj Sharma, the fourth most senior Supreme Court judge, for the Chief Justice position. This move breaks the tradition of appointing the most senior justice to the role. National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Dahal and Leader of the Opposition Bhisma Raj Angdembe opposed the decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding tradition.
Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla criticized the Council’s choice, accusing them of attempting to control the judiciary. She highlighted the significance of maintaining the judiciary’s independence and criticized the government’s decision to prioritize capability over seniority. Malla stressed the importance of fair and fearless decision-making in upholding justice.
Former Prime Minister Sushila Karki strongly criticized the Council’s decision, expressing disappointment that a qualified woman like Sapana Pradhan Malla was overlooked for the Chief Justice position. Karki emphasized the need for judicial independence and criticized attempts to influence the court’s decisions. Constitutional lawyer Bipin Adhikari raised concerns about the impact of deviating from the tradition of appointing the most senior justice on the judiciary’s independence.
