KATHMANDU, April 1: The government has announced plans to launch an immediate investigation into the assets of individuals who have held public office since 1990 as part of its broader anti-corruption framework, while also introducing competitive procedures for the appointment of judges.
According to a draft of the ‘National Commitment’ made public on Tuesday, the government will ensure that asset investigations are conducted through a transparent and lawful process, signalling a renewed emphasis on accountability and financial scrutiny of public officials.
JC to appoint district judges through open competition
The government had earlier pledged to establish an asset investigation commission under the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers within 15 days. However, the body is yet to be formed. Officials say preparatory work for its formation is underway.
At present, the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) is the only constitutional body mandated to investigate the assets of public office holders, and does so upon receipt of complaints. In the case of judges, however, asset-related scrutiny falls under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Council rather than the CIAA.
Nepal last constituted a dedicated judicial asset investigation commission in 2001, headed by former Supreme Court justice Bhairab Prasad Lamsal. Since then, no similar commission has been formed to examine judicial assets.
