Supreme Court issues show-cause order against NBA President Ghimire

Kathmandu, October 17 — The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause order in the contempt proceedings initiated against Gopal Krishna Ghimire, the President of the Nepal Bar Association.

The bench comprising Justices Kumar Regmi and Kumar Chudal issued the show-cause order on Thursday, electing to maintain the writ without dismissal.

Following this joint bench order, it appears that the ongoing tension between the Bar and the Bench will persist. It had been anticipated that the dispute would conclude after the Supreme Court's spokesperson, Govinda Ghimire, announced the withdrawal of the report. However, with the bench's decision to keep the matter alive, it seems that only the Bar and Bench Coordination Committee will seek a resolution. A judge noted that as the procedural course of the case continues, the friction between the Bar and the Bench may intensify.

The Supreme Court has mandated a specific timeframe for Ghimire to clarify his statements. Ghimire has responded by affirming his intention to comply with the Supreme Court's esteemed directives.

"I have raised my voice in defense of judicial independence. In light of public opposition to the actions of the Judicial Council, I have articulated the people's concerns," Ghimire stated. "I shall respond in a manner that respects the Court. The Bar will consistently advocate for the rule of law and justice."

Ghimire's statements, alleging irregularities in the appointment of Supreme Court judges, led the Supreme Court to file a contempt petition on September 30. The Bar Association has long opposed the Judicial Council's regulations. The tensions escalated when, during an ongoing protest, the Judicial Council recommended two candidates for appointment to the Supreme Court.