KATHMANDU, May 10: Ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane has criticized Acting Chief Justice (CJ) Sapana Pradhan Malla over her remarks questioning the recommendation process for the next CJ.
Speaking at the closing session of a training program for party lawmakers on Sunday, Lamichhane said the judiciary’s recent comments on the recommendation process were “unreasonable” and “unnecessary.”
Acting CJ Malla had earlier suggested during Constitution Day remarks that the recent recommendation process for Chief Justice had moved away from established traditions and raised constitutional concerns.
Responding to this, Lamichhane defended the constitutional process behind the recommendation of justices, arguing that it followed legal procedures.
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“If there was a rule that the senior-most justice must automatically become CJ, there would be no need for the Constitutional Council,” he said. “Names are recommended through a proper constitutional process, and one of our senior leaders has made the proposal. If we return fully to old traditions, it would only lead to political bargaining and division.”
Lamichhane also reacted strongly to criticism directed at him, stating, “If you are angry with me, my neck is right here—use your weapon. But the court should not turn this into a matter of ridicule.”
He urged that the dignity of the judiciary should not be undermined and called for a more citizen-focused justice system.
He further said delays in justice delivery are often caused by internal disputes and political influence within the judiciary, stressing the need for reforms that ensure timely justice. “Justice should not remain only on paper—it must be delivered in practice,” he said.
Lamichhane also reaffirmed that his party would not support any form of political bargaining in appointments while in government, emphasizing merit and constitutional values as key criteria for judicial appointments.
Earlier in the program, he also instructed party lawmakers on internal discipline, policy priorities, and budget-related issues, urging them to avoid controversy and focus on public-interest legislation.
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