Kathmandu: The demand for the reinstatement of the monarchy in Nepal has gained momentum once again. The pro-monarchy Rashtriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) organized a rally in Kathmandu, where a large number of people participated, carrying Nepal’s national flag. Former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah recently expressed his willingness to take on an active role in the country’s future.
However, Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Nepali Congress Chief Sher Bahadur Deuba have dismissed the possibility of Nepal reverting to a monarchical system. Similarly, Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), criticized Gyanendra Shah, urging him to stop misleading the public. He remarked that if the former king believes he has significant public support, he should form a political party and contest elections.
Growing Support for Monarchy Amid Discontent with Democracy
RPP supporters argue that corruption is rampant in Nepal’s government, making monarchy a better alternative to democracy. Nepal was a monarchy until 2008, after which the royal palace in Kathmandu was converted into a museum. On Thursday, in Pokhara, Gyanendra Shah unveiled a statue of former King Birendra Shah, an event attended by a large crowd who also sang the royal anthem. Reports indicate that a significant portion of the monarchy’s supporters comprises young people.
Public Frustration with the Current System
When Nepal abolished the monarchy, people believed democracy would bring prosperity. However, many Nepalese are now growing weary of the current system. Gyanendra Shah’s popularity is resurging amid widespread allegations of corruption against the government and dissatisfaction with Nepal’s foreign policy.
Impact of Communist Rule on India-Nepal Relations
Historically, Nepal has been a close ally of India, with stronger ties during the monarchy. However, under communist rule, Nepal’s political landscape has seen a shift toward China, accompanied by an evident rise in anti-India sentiment. The Nepalese government even halted the recruitment of Nepalese citizens into India’s Gorkha Regiment, which has negatively impacted the community. As a result, many Nepalese are recalling the stability of past monarchical rule, providing an opportunity for pro-monarchy factions to capitalize on public discontent.
Nepal’s Economic Struggles
Despite the growing demand for monarchy, the RPP remains a minor political entity in Nepal’s parliament, holding only 14 out of 275 seats. Nepal’s economy is also facing severe challenges, with external debt increasing by nearly NPR 2 trillion this fiscal year. Additionally, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a halt to financial aid to Nepal, further exacerbating the nation’s economic crisis. With the government burdened by rising debt, frustration among Nepalese citizens continues to mount, potentially fueling further political instability.
