Nepal bypasses acting CJ, fourth-in-line picked to lead the judiciary
Summary
Nepal's Constitutional Council has selected Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma, the fourth-ranking Supreme Court judge, as chief justice, bypassing senior judges and sparking controversy over the breach of seniority tradition.
Key Points
- Nepal's Constitutional Council breached a seven-decade seniority tradition by appointing Justice Manoj Kumar Sharma as chief justice.
- The decision bypassed senior-most justice Sapana Pradhan Malla and others, causing dissent within the council.
- Prime Minister Balendra Shah defended the choice, emphasizing merit and expertise over seniority.
- The Nepal Bar Association and legal experts have expressed reservations about the appointment and its implications for judicial independence.
