Nepal’s Former King Gyanendra Shah Receives Warm Welcome Amid Growing Support for Monarchy
On Sunday, former King Gyanendra Shah of Nepal was greeted by thousands of enthusiastic supporters in Kathmandu. As he arrived at Tribhuvan International Airport after a tour of western Nepal, the crowd chanted, “Come king, save the nation!” Supporters, including members of the pro-monarchist Rastriya Prajatantra Party, waved the national flag and carried placards demanding the reinstatement of the monarchy.
Mass Protest and Blockage of Airport Entrance
An estimated 10,000 people gathered outside the airport, blocking the main entrance. Passengers were forced to walk to and from the airport due to the overwhelming crowd. Riot police were deployed to manage the situation, but fortunately, no violence was reported. The scene reflected the growing discontent with Nepal’s current political system, with many calling for a return to the monarchy.
A Growing Disillusionment with the Republic
Nepal abolished its 240-year-old monarchy in 2008 following a decade-long civil war that claimed over 16,000 lives. However, the ongoing political instability, corruption, and economic challenges have led many people to rethink their support for the republic. “The country faces high prices, joblessness, and poor healthcare,” said Rajindra Kunwar, a teacher and rally participant. “The poor are dying of hunger, and the law applies to the public but not to politicians. That’s why we need the king back.”
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Former Supporters of the Monarchy Voice Regret
Interestingly, some individuals who once supported the abolition of the monarchy are now advocating for its return. Kulraj Shrestha, a carpenter who participated in the 2006 protests against the king, now supports the monarchy. He explained, “I was wrong. I thought removing the monarchy would help the country, but it has only worsened. I have changed my mind.”
Gyanendra’s Recent Public Statements Spark Debate
Despite mostly remaining silent on political matters, Gyanendra made a significant public statement on the eve of Nepal’s Democracy Day in February. He urged, “If we wish to save our nation and maintain unity, I call on all countrymen to support us for Nepal’s prosperity and progress.” His words have reignited debate over the future of Nepal’s political system and the role of the monarchy.
Political Analysts Doubt the Monarchy’s Return
While there is growing support for Gyanendra, political analysts believe that the monarchy’s return is unlikely. Lok Raj Baral, a political analyst, remarked that the monarchy was a source of instability in the past and that some groups are looking to it as a solution due to the incompetence of current politicians. Despite the desire for change, the challenges of restoring the monarchy remain significant.
Increased Security and Speculation Around Narayanhiti Palace
As the movement for monarchy restoration gains momentum, security in Kathmandu has been heightened. Riot police were stationed around the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, the former royal residence, amidst rumors that Gyanendra might attempt to enter the palace with his supporters. However, the former king proceeded to his private residence, Nirmal Niwas, without incident.
Public Figures Join the Movement
The movement for the monarchy’s restoration has gained further support from public figures, including Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala, granddaughter of Nepal’s first elected Prime Minister BP Koirala. She used social media to encourage Nepali citizens to gather at the airport to welcome the former monarch, further fueling the pro-monarchy sentiment in the country.
Chants for the Monarchy’s Return and Hinduism’s Role
Thousands of supporters gathered in Kathmandu, chanting, “Vacate the royal palace for the king” and “Come back king, save the country.” In addition to the calls for monarchy restoration, many protesters also voiced support for bringing Hinduism back as the state religion. Riot police were stationed to manage the crowd, but the event remained peaceful.
Frustration with the Republic and Desire for Change
Since the monarchy was abolished, Nepal has seen 13 different governments, leading to growing frustration with the republic. Some rally participants, such as 72-year-old Thir Bahadur Bhandari, expressed hope that restoring the monarchy would bring positive change. Kulraj Shrestha, once an opponent of the monarchy, echoed this sentiment, citing widespread corruption and the failure of politicians to address the country’s problems.
Gyanendra’s Past and His Path to Power
Gyanendra became king in 2002 after a palace massacre killed his brother and several other members of the royal family. He initially served as a constitutional monarch before seizing absolute power in 2005. He dissolved the government, jailed politicians and journalists, declared a state of emergency, and used the military to control the country. Despite the rising support for his return, Gyanendra’s chances of regaining political power remain slim.
Nepal stands at a crossroads. While a significant portion of the population rallies behind the idea of restoring the monarchy, the political future of the nation remains uncertain. The growing support for Gyanendra highlights the deep dissatisfaction with the republic and the country’s ongoing political struggles. However, whether the monarchy can ever return remains to be seen.
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