Deputy Speaker Ruby Kumari Thakur Defends Chief Justice Recommendation Amidst Criticism

Kathmandu. Intense debate and criticism are currently underway in political circles regarding the decision related to the recommendation of the Chief Justice. Deputy Speaker Ruby Kumari Thakur has publicly expressed her views on the matter of recommending fourth-ranked judge Manoj Kumar Sharma as Chief Justice. Thakur claimed that the recommendation was made based on performance and qualification. She stated on social media that the public has long had grievances with the justice system. 'Our cases were prolonged for so many years, for that many years – this grievance is widespread. The excessive time taken for a case to be decided is a serious issue for the justice system,' she wrote on Facebook. She further wrote, emphasizing that judge appointments should be based on performance evaluation, not influenced by parties or political groups, 'When appointments are made based on parties or political groups, not on performance and qualification, the results also start appearing accordingly.' According to Thakur, there is no need for any 'ifs and buts' in the current recommendation, and the constitution, law, and public interest have been prioritized. However, the decision is facing widespread criticism from the government. Questions have been raised particularly about recommending a person ranked fourth. Even Hark Sampang, the chairman and MP of the party to which Thakur belongs, the Labour Culture Party, has expressed dissatisfaction. He had expressed anger towards Thakur on social media. Meanwhile, Thakur has mentioned the former political roles and party affiliations of the judges recommended for Chief Justice on social media. She has mentioned which judge is affiliated with which party with the help of ChatGPT. Accordingly, Sapana Pradhan Malla — considered close to CPN (UML) as she was a former Constituent Assembly member. Kumar Regmi — publicly said to be close to the Nepali Congress. Some also mention close relations with UML leaders. Hari Prasad Phuyal — rumored to be close to CPN (UML) as he was a former Attorney General. Manoj Kumar Sharma — no public details clearly linking him to any party are widely visible. Nahakul Subedi — no clear affiliation with any party has publicly emerged. Til Prasad Shrestha — no clear details of party affiliation are publicly available.