Nepal Moves Forward with Key Appointments in Constitutional Bodies

Nepal's President Ramchandra Paudel has promulgated the constitutional council ordinance, allowing the government to appoint key positions in constitutional bodies. The ordinance, previously returned for review, was resubmitted and approved, enabling the appointment of a new Chief Justice among other positions in the council.

Nepal has taken a significant step toward filling crucial vacancies in its constitutional bodies as President Ramchandra Paudel promulgated the constitutional council ordinance. This move follows the re-submission and approval of the ordinance, originally returned to the government for review. The ordinance empowers the government to appoint vital positions, including the much-anticipated appointment of a new Chief Justice.

The six-member Constitutional Council is composed of the Prime Minister, acting as the chair, with members including the Chief Justice, Speaker, National Assembly Chair, Leader of the Opposition in the House of Representatives, and the Deputy Speaker. This diverse group is tasked with ensuring smooth and effective governance through strategic appointments.

The ordinance, titled the Constitutional Council (Functions, Duties, Powers, and Procedure) Ordinance, 2026, is expected to streamline the appointment process, thereby providing momentum in filling positions that have been vacant for some time. This development marks a critical moment for Nepal's governance as it seeks to enhance stability and effectiveness within its constitutional framework.