The Nepalese government has imposed restrictions on public gatherings in Lalitpur, just days after a similar ban was enforced in Kathmandu. The move follows a massive public reception for former King Gyanendra at Tribhuvan International Airport on March 9, highlighting the growing influence of pro-monarchy sentiments in the country. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s administration, in coalition with the Nepali Congress, appears to be on the defensive as public frustration with the political establishment rises.
Government’s Response to Growing Monarchy Support
The unexpected surge in public support for the ex-king has unsettled Nepal’s political leaders. Addressing the issue, Prime Minister Oli remarked, “He [Gyanendra] asks for people’s support, but it is not clear for what purpose. If he wants public backing, he should enter politics and ask for votes.”
Maoist leader and former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda), who played a pivotal role in the abolition of the monarchy, echoed concerns over the growing momentum of royalist forces. “The regressive forces are being encouraged because of the lack of credibility in this government,” he said. “Those who never imagined a return of the monarchy are now openly advocating for it.”
Royalists Push for a Monarchy Comeback
Leading the charge for monarchy restoration is the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), which has been making steady electoral gains. The party has capitalized on public disillusionment with Nepal’s current political system, emphasizing the monarchy’s historical role in maintaining national unity and stability.
Former King Gyanendra, who has become increasingly vocal in his criticism of Nepal’s governance, issued a message on February 19, Democracy Day, urging national unity. “We call upon all Nepalis to join our efforts to protect the nation, maintain unity, and strive for prosperity,” he said in a video message.
Pro-monarchy supporters believe the current political climate is ripe for change. “If we harness this public discontent, it will grow into a people’s movement that could help restore the monarchy,” said Mohan Shrestha, RPP spokesperson.
Historical Context and Feasibility of Monarchy Restoration
While monarchy restoration has historical precedents in other nations, it remains a complex issue in Nepal. Countries like Spain (1975) and Cambodia (1993) have reinstated their monarchies under specific political circumstances.
Phanindra Pathak, a close aide of the former king, claims that Nepal’s monarchy will be restored, citing growing public sentiment and international attention. “The environment for reinstating the monarchy is becoming more favorable,” he stated.
However, political analyst Hari Roka argues that while public enthusiasm for Gyanendra is evident, it does not necessarily translate into widespread support for monarchy restoration. “The high turnout for his welcome event in Kathmandu does not mean people want the monarchy back. The majority still supports the republican system,” he said.
The Constitutional Hurdle
One of the biggest challenges for monarchists is navigating the legal framework. The 2015 constitution firmly established Nepal as a federal democratic republic, leaving little room for a return to monarchy.
Pro-monarchy forces argue that constitutional amendments or the “Doctrine of Necessity” could pave the way for reinstatement. “Just as King Gyanendra reinstated the dissolved parliament in 2006 despite no constitutional provision for it, the monarchy can similarly be restored,” Pathak suggested.
Monarchists have called for a political agreement among major stakeholders, including the former king. They claim that Nepal’s political leaders had initially agreed to preserve a constitutional monarchy in a “gentlemen’s agreement” in 2006, but later abandoned the commitment. “If political parties fail to honor that agreement, the people will bring the monarchy back,” Pathak warned.
Economic Struggles Fueling Public Frustration
Nepal’s economic challenges have played a crucial role in the public’s growing dissatisfaction with the government. The country remains one of the poorest in the world, with a per capita income of less than $1,500. Job opportunities are scarce, leading over 741,000 Nepalese to seek employment abroad in the past year alone.
“The lack of economic prospects is the main reason for public frustration,” said Arun Subedi, a former foreign policy advisor to ex-Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. “If this dissatisfaction continues, it could lead to unorganized mass protests.”
Pro-monarchy advocates argue that a return to the monarchy could provide stability and effective governance. Rajan Karki, another close associate of Gyanendra, claimed, “No political leader is as popular as the former king. Political figures are losing public trust due to their own actions.”
International and Regional Reactions
The growing pro-monarchy movement in Nepal is also being closely watched by international powers. Some analysts believe India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), supported by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), might favor Nepal returning to its Hindu monarchy roots.
Former King Gyanendra has maintained strong ties with influential figures in India, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who leads the Gorakhnath Mutt—a religious institution with deep connections in Nepal.
However, political experts caution that China’s influence in Nepal has expanded significantly over the past two decades, largely through Nepal’s communist parties. “Even if India supports monarchy restoration, China may not be in favor of it,” said Roka.
As for the United States, Subedi believes Washington’s current inward-focused policies could mean little intervention in Nepal’s internal affairs.
What Lies Ahead?
While monarchy restoration remains uncertain, the growing public sentiment in favor of the former king is undeniable. If dissatisfaction with Nepal’s political leadership continues to rise, it could fuel further momentum for the pro-monarchy movement.
However, the path forward is complex. Whether through constitutional amendments, political negotiations, or public movements, the question of monarchy restoration is likely to remain a contentious issue in Nepal’s evolving political landscape.
