Nepal’s Ousted King Sees Rising Support for Monarchy’s Return- Nepal Monarchy Restoration

Kathmandu, Nepal (AP) – Thousands of supporters gathered in Nepal’s capital on Sunday to welcome former King Gyanendra Shah, calling for the reinstatement of the monarchy and the return of Hinduism as the state religion. – Nepal Monarchy Restoration

As the former king arrived at Tribhuvan International Airport from a tour of western Nepal, an estimated 10,000 supporters blocked the main entrance, chanting slogans such as, “Vacate the royal palace for the king,” “Come back king, save the country,” and “Long live our beloved king.” Their demonstration forced passengers to walk to and from the airport, while hundreds of riot police stood guard to prevent any violence – Nepal Monarchy Restoration.

 

 

Growing Discontent with the Republic- Nepal Monarchy Restoration

Nepal’s monarchy was abolished in 2008 following massive street protests in 2006 that forced Gyanendra to relinquish his authoritarian rule. He left the Royal Palace to live as a common citizen after the parliament voted to dissolve the monarchy. Since then, Nepal has experienced political instability, cycling through 13 different governments. Many Nepalis blame the republic for economic struggles and widespread corruption, fueling renewed support for the former king.

Protesters at the rally voiced their dissatisfaction with the current political system and their desire for change.

“We are here to give the king our full support and to rally behind him all the way to reinstating him on the throne,” said 72-year-old Thir Bahadur Bhandari.

Among the demonstrators was 50-year-old carpenter Kulraj Shrestha, who had once protested against the monarchy in 2006 but has since changed his stance.

“The worst thing happening to the country is massive corruption, and all politicians in power are doing nothing for Nepal,” Shrestha said. “I joined the protests against the monarchy hoping for a better future, but I was mistaken. The nation has only deteriorated further.”

 

 

Slim Chances for Immediate Monarchy Restoration- Nepal Monarchy Restoration

Despite the rising calls for his return, Gyanendra has not commented on the movement. While public sentiment in favor of the monarchy is growing, the likelihood of an immediate return to power remains low.

Gyanendra ascended the throne in 2002 after his brother and most of the royal family were massacred in the palace. Initially, he served as a constitutional monarch without executive powers. However, in 2005, he seized absolute control, dissolving the government and parliament, imprisoning politicians and journalists, and declaring a state of emergency while using the army to govern the country. His rule ultimately led to widespread protests, culminating in the end of the monarchy.

With the current political landscape marked by instability and economic hardship, Nepal faces a crossroads as public debates over governance and the monarchy’s future continue to intensify.

 

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