Hearing Today on Petition Filed Against NRB Governor Dr. Paudel’s Appointment

The Supreme Court of Nepal is set to conduct a hearing today on a writ petition demanding the cancellation of the appointment of Dr. Vishwanath Paudel as Governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB).

Although the initial petition filed last Friday by advocates Anantaraj Luintel, Bishal Thapa, and Pratibha Upreti was rejected by the court administration, it was registered on Tuesday, leading to today’s scheduled hearing.

The writ alleges that the appointment process violated legal provisions, citing that a defeated parliamentary candidate was recommended for the position by a selection committee member who resigned only to be appointed himself. The petition claims this act undermines principles of good governance.

Furthermore, the petition states that Dr. Paudel lacks the required qualifications as outlined in Section 15 of the Nepal Rastra Bank Act, 2058. It argues that while Dr. Paudel holds a degree in rural development economics, he does not have formal academic qualifications in monetary, commercial, or banking sectors, which are deemed necessary for the role.

The petition also demands an interim order to restrict Dr. Paudel from making major national-level decisions or signing currency notes until the final verdict is issued.

Additionally, the petitioners challenge the government's amendment to the 2073 guidelines for appointing officials and members of public bodies under the Ministry of Finance, seeking the annulment of the revised criteria.

Notably, on April 14 (Baisakh 2), the Supreme Court had already issued an interim order preventing the implementation of changes that would lift the age cap of 65 for the Governor’s position.