Full Breakdown
Renewed Calls for Monarchy in Nepal Ahead of 2026 Elections
2/17/2026, 6:43:35 AM
Growing Support for Former King Gyanendra Shah
In recent weeks, Nepal has witnessed a significant resurgence in pro-monarchy sentiment as thousands of supporters gathered near Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to welcome former king Gyanendra Shah. The rally, which occurred just weeks before the scheduled general elections on March 5, 2026, saw attendees chanting for the restoration of a constitutional monarchy and expressing dissatisfaction with the current political landscape. Demonstrators argued that the abolition of the monarchy in 2008 has led to political instability and economic distress, with many believing that a Hindu king could unify the nation and restore governance.
Background: The End of Monarchy in Nepal
Nepal's monarchy was formally abolished in 2010 following a series of protests in 2006 that forced Gyanendra to relinquish his authoritarian rule. The transition to a federal democratic republic was marked by the adoption of a new constitution and several elections. However, supporters of the monarchy assert that the republican system has failed to deliver the expected stability and prosperity, citing frequent government changes and coalition instability as key issues.
Key Figures in the Pro-Monarchy Movement
The pro-monarchy movement is supported by various groups, including the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, with senior leader Kamal Thapa actively advocating for the restoration of the monarchy. Activists such as Navaraj Subedi and medical professional Durga Prasai have also mobilized supporters, emphasizing that addressing the monarchy demand is essential for resolving Nepal's political crisis before the upcoming elections.
Official Statements & Responses
Prime Minister Sushila Karki has called for active citizen participation in the upcoming elections, highlighting the need for peaceful polls as a means to navigate the current political impasse. She stated, “It is important to ensure that the upcoming election is held peacefully as it gives a way out from the current political impasse.” While the government views the elections as a crucial milestone in Nepal's democratic transition, there is currently no formal process to reinstate the monarchy, which would require significant political consensus and constitutional amendments.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the growing support for Gyanendra Shah, many Nepalese continue to advocate for the republican system, arguing that it is essential for democratic governance. Critics of the pro-monarchy movement contend that restoring the monarchy would not address the underlying issues of political instability and economic challenges facing the country.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the pro-monarchy rallies have garnered substantial attention, the actual level of support for the monarchy compared to other political parties remains unclear. In the last election, pro-Gyanendra groups secured approximately 5% of the seats, indicating that while there is a vocal minority advocating for the monarchy, broader public sentiment may still favor the republican framework.
What's Next: The Road to Elections
As Nepal approaches the general elections, the debate over the monarchy's role in the country's future is likely to shape campaign narratives and voter sentiment. The visible mobilization of pro-monarchy supporters suggests that the question of restoring the monarchy remains a significant topic in public discourse, even as the nation grapples with its republican identity.
