19 May 2026 | Kathmandu — Updated 18:30 GMT
Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma Sworn In, Vows Independent Judiciary
KATHMANDU – President Ramchandra Paudel administered the oath of office and secrecy to newly appointed Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma in a formal ceremony held at Sheetal Niwas on Tuesday.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister Balen Shah, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal, National Assembly Chair Narayan Prasad Dahal, and other senior government officials.
Following his appointment under Article 129(2) of the Constitution of Nepal, based on the recommendation of the Constitutional Council, Chief Justice Sharma pledged to safeguard judicial independence and strengthen public trust in the justice system.
⚡ KEY COMMITMENT: Chief Justice Sharma emphasized zero tolerance for corruption, full judicial independence, digital transformation of courts, and faster justice delivery.
"Judicial Independence Is the Backbone of Democracy"
Speaking to journalists at the Supreme Court after assuming office, Chief Justice Sharma said that judicial independence and impartiality are essential pillars of democracy.
"My first and highest priority is to fully preserve an independent judiciary. There will be no compromise under any circumstances," he stated.
He further assured that no interference in judicial processes, institutional autonomy, or judges' professional integrity would be tolerated during his tenure.
— Chief Justice Dr. Manoj Kumar Sharma
Digital Courts and Judicial Reform Agenda
Chief Justice Sharma announced a broad reform agenda focusing on modernization of Nepal's judicial system through technology and institutional strengthening.
- Expansion of virtual hearing systems
- Digital transformation of courts
- Zero tolerance policy against corruption and delays
- Strict action against intermediaries in judicial processes
- Improved case management and backlog reduction
He also announced plans to form a high-level committee to recommend legal and procedural reforms aimed at improving efficiency in service delivery.
Improving Access to Justice
The Chief Justice stressed participation, coordination, and cooperation as key principles for improving access to justice for citizens across Nepal.
He said every court would be equipped with a well-managed helpline desk to assist service seekers and improve transparency in judicial services.
Focus on Case Backlogs and Enforcement
Sharma emphasized the need for urgent action on long-pending cases, stating that special plans would be implemented for faster disposal of backlogs.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening enforcement mechanisms to ensure court decisions are implemented effectively.
Judicial Council and Institutional Strengthening
According to Sharma, the Judicial Council will be made more active and institutionalized with regular meetings and stronger oversight mechanisms.
He said this would help enhance accountability, professionalism, and efficiency across the judiciary.
📊 CHIEF JUSTICE SHARMA – REFORM AGENDA
- Priority: Judicial independence and impartiality
- Corruption: Zero tolerance policy
- Modernization: Digital courts and virtual hearings
- Backlog: Special plans for faster case disposal
- Access: Helpline desks in every court
- Oversight: Active Judicial Council with regular meetings
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