May 09, Kathmandu - Chief Justice of Nepal, Sapana Pradhan Malla, emphasized that true justice cannot be served under fear and undue influence. Speaking at a Law Day event, Acting Chief Justice Malla called on judges to remain independent, free from the fear of a two-thirds majority government or the threat of impeachment.

“Justice cannot be achieved under fear and influence,” she stated. “It doesn't matter whether that fear stems from a two-thirds government majority or the threat of impeachment.”

Addressing the gathering, Malla criticized actions that undermine legal and constitutional traditions for selfish gains, which she said reflect autocratic tendencies. She warned that attempting structural changes by destroying established systems could endanger the hopes of those trusting the rule of law, even if it means risking political power.

She stressed that any attempt to manipulate the law under the guise of justification erodes faith in legal governance. Malla highlighted the need to strengthen the judiciary with adequate resources to ensure it operates in line with the spirit of the constitution and the pace of the government.

During her speech, she expressed concern over efforts to weaken the independence of the judiciary and constitutional supremacy under the pretext of expediency. Malla warned that any attempts to intimidate or replace justice with coercion could lead to chaos and instability.