KATHMANDU, May 9: Acting Chief Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla has urged judges to carry out their duties impartially, free from political influence, fear, or pressure.
Speaking at a special ceremony organized to mark the 74th Law Day, Malla said the essence of justice must not be undermined by the pressure of a two-thirds majority government or threats of impeachment.
Addressing judges attending the event, she encouraged them to work with high morale and integrity. “Justice cannot prevail under fear or influence,” Malla said. “Whether it is the fear of a powerful government or the threat of impeachment, judges must rise above such narrow constraints.”
She called on members of the judiciary to uphold the sanctity of justice with courage and impartiality, stressing that fearless decision-making is essential to preserving the independence and dignity of the judiciary.
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Malla said justice should never be swayed by political power dynamics or the strength of a ruling majority. “Judicial officials should not fear any authority. Their foremost duty is to safeguard the Constitution and the rule of law,” she added.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Malla said she has been fighting discrimination and injustice since entering the legal profession.
“I have spent my life fighting injustice, and that struggle is not over,” she said. “I remain committed to ensuring competent, clean, and fair justice.” She expressed confidence that Law Day would inspire greater commitment to the path of justice.
The remarks of Malla came days after the Constitutional Council picked Dr Manoj Kumar Sharma as new Chief Justice, bypassing the seniority and the established practice. Malla is the senior-most justice among all the justices currently serving at the SC.
Malla also underscored the importance of the Nepal Bar Association, the media, and civil society in protecting constitutionalism, the rule of law, and citizens’ rights at a critical time for the country.
She stressed that all concerned institutions must work collectively to defend judicial independence. “Protecting the dignity of the judiciary is a shared responsibility,” she said.
According to Malla, the presence of the President and Vice President at the ceremony reflected harmonious relations among the organs of the state. She said the tradition of bringing together key state institutions on Law Day contributes to strengthening democracy.
The ceremony was attended by the President, Vice President, and other high-ranking state officials.
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