Former Nepal Chief Justice Urges Caution on Constitutional Amendments

A constitutional amendment task force led by Ashim Shah, political adviser to Prime Minister Balendra Shah, met former Chief Justice and former Chairman of Nepal’s Council of Ministers Khil Raj Regmi at his residence on Friday to gather suggestions on proposed constitutional reforms.

During the meeting, Regmi stressed that any constitutional amendment should preserve the constitution’s core spirit, basic structure and preamble while ensuring a balance between political stability and democratic checks and balances.

He cautioned against rushing to decide whether Nepal should adopt an executive presidential system or continue with a parliamentary model, warning that an excessive pursuit of stability could create conditions for authoritarian rule.

Regmi also pointed to practical challenges in provisions governing government formation and no-confidence motions under Article 76 of the constitution.

He suggested revising the current rule that prevents no-confidence motions from being filed for two years after a government is formed, proposing that such motions be allowed after at least six months.

The former chief justice further recommended changes to Nepal’s electoral system, arguing that the current number of proportional representation lawmakers gives them disproportionate influence in parliament.

The former chair of council of ministers suggested limiting the number of proportional representation seats to 60.