Pro-Monarchy Rally in Kathmandu Calls for Restoration Ahead of Elections

Supporters of Nepal’s former royal family gathered in Kathmandu on March 3, 2024, to advocate for the restoration of the monarchy just weeks before the country’s parliamentary elections. This rally marks the first significant mobilization by supporters of deposed king Gyanendra since protests led by youth activists in September resulted in the fall of the previous government and the establishment of an interim administration.

Demonstrators congregated around the statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the 18th-century monarch credited with founding the Shah dynasty. They chanted slogans such as “We love our king” and “Bring back the king,” expressing their belief that the monarchy is essential for stabilizing governance in Nepal. One participant, Samrat Thapa, articulated this sentiment, stating, “The last and only alternative for this country is the king and monarchy.” He emphasized the need for monarchy restoration to navigate the current political climate.

The event coincided with the birth anniversary of Prithvi Narayan Shah, highlighting its symbolic significance for the pro-monarchy movement. Previous pro-monarchy rallies have turned violent, notably in March 2023, when clashes with police resulted in two fatalities. In contrast, this gathering remained peaceful, thanks in part to the substantial presence of riot police who were deployed to prevent potential unrest.

Despite the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, public support for the royal family persists. The recent political turmoil has been fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with the interim government, headed by Sushila Karki, who is Nepal’s first female prime minister and a retired Supreme Court judge. Karki’s administration took charge following protests fueled by grievances over corruption, high unemployment, and inadequate opportunities for the youth.

The unrest was initially triggered by a brief ban on social media imposed by the previous government, which sparked outrage among young activists. While Karki’s government has made efforts to address these issues, it has faced criticism for its slow progress in tackling corruption, even as political uncertainty looms over the nation.

As Nepal approaches the upcoming elections, the push for the monarchy’s restoration underscores the deep-seated divisions within the country and the ongoing struggle for a stable political landscape. The pro-monarchy rally in Kathmandu reflects a significant moment in Nepal’s political discourse, as supporters assert their belief in the monarchy’s potential role in addressing the nation’s challenges.