Chief Justice Appointment Approved Through Expedited Hearing, Breaking Seniority Norms

Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma assumed the position of Chief Justice on May 18 following a swift parliamentary hearing based on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council. His appointment, which bypassed seniority conventions, has left the judiciary divided and raised concerns about internal conflicts during the parliamentary proceedings. Dr. Sharma committed to enhancing judicial transparency by releasing quarterly progress reports and forming a high-level study committee. Kathmandu, May 18.

Appointed as Chief Justice through an ordinance route related to the Constitutional Council, Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma was confirmed in Tuesday’s expedited parliamentary hearing. Breaking the tradition of appointing the most senior judge as Chief Justice, Dr. Sharma completed the confirmation process on the same day, from the hearing to officially taking office. His recommendation has sparked divisions within the judiciary.

Opposition lawmakers in the hearing committee questioned the haste, asking, “Why the rush?” Committee Chair Bodh Narayan Shrestha responded, “It is essential to make specific decisions within a particular timeframe.” Dr. Sharma faced 16 complaints against him. The hearing began at 8 a.m. and lasted until 4 p.m.

At 6:45 p.m., Dr. Sharma took the oath from President Ram Chandra Paudel and formally assumed office at the Supreme Court. Dr. Sharma emphasized, “Our constitution interprets the position of Chief Justice as an appointment rather than a promotion.” He clarified that familial relations do not legally disqualify anyone from holding office. Furthermore, he pledged to establish a high-level study committee aimed at judiciary reforms.