Nepal's President Ramchandra Paudel promulgated the Constitutional Council (Functions, Duties, Powers and Procedure) Ordinance, 2026, on Tuesday, May 5, enabling the government to proceed with appointments to constitutional bodies. The ordinance allows the Constitutional Council to resume its role in recommending candidates for high-level posts, including the Chief Justice, Election Commissioners, and heads of anti-corruption and human rights agencies.

The President had returned the draft ordinance to the government on Sunday, May 3, for revision before final approval. The revised version was resubmitted and formally enacted within 48 hours, indicating swift coordination between the executive and the presidency.

The promulgation comes amid political pressure to fill vacant constitutional positions that have remained pending due to procedural delays. With the ordinance now in force, the government is expected to convene the Constitutional Council within the week to begin the appointment process. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.