What's happened
Nepal's upcoming elections are drawing increased support for Gyanendra Shah, the former king, amid political instability and protests. Supporters rally at Tribhuvan International Airport, calling for the restoration of the monarchy, though Gyanendra's chances of returning to power remain limited due to weak political backing. Campaigns are underway as Nepal faces ongoing governance challenges.
What's behind the headline?
The renewed support for Gyanendra Shah highlights deep dissatisfaction with Nepal's republican government, which has experienced 14 changes of leadership in 18 years. The pro-monarchy rallies, though peaceful, reflect a segment of the population frustrated with political corruption and economic stagnation. The movement's momentum is limited by the fact that royalist parties hold only about 5% of seats in the current parliament, and Gyanendra's personal influence remains symbolic rather than substantive. The upcoming elections could marginally benefit royalist parties, but their overall impact on Nepal's political trajectory is likely minimal. The protests serve as a reminder that Nepal's political stability remains fragile, and the monarchy's potential return is more a reflection of public discontent than a realistic political shift. The current political landscape suggests that Nepal will continue to grapple with governance challenges, with the monarchy's revival remaining a symbolic rallying point rather than a practical solution.
How we got here
Nepal abolished its monarchy in 2008, establishing a secular republic after years of civil war and political upheaval. Gyanendra Shah, the last king, has since lived as a commoner but retains symbolic support among royalists. Recent protests and political unrest, including the resignation of Prime Minister Oli, have revived calls for monarchy restoration, especially ahead of the March elections. Supporters see Gyanendra as a figure who can bring stability amid ongoing government instability and economic frustrations.
Our analysis
The Independent reports that Gyanendra Shah's supporters gathered peacefully at Tribhuvan International Airport, chanting for the return of the monarchy, with no arrests made. Reuters highlights the ongoing political instability, noting that Nepal has had 14 government changes since 2008, which has deterred investment and growth. Both sources emphasize that while royalist support is growing, Gyanendra's chances of regaining power are slim due to limited political backing and the dominance of republican parties. The articles contrast the symbolic support for the monarchy with the political reality of Nepal's fragile democracy, illustrating a nation divided between tradition and modern governance.
More on these topics
-
Nepal - Country in South Asia
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a country in South Asia. It is mainly in the Himalayas, but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. It is the 49th largest country by population and 93rd largest country by area.
-
Kathmandu - Capital of Nepal
Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal, with a population of around 1 million. Also known as the city of temples, the city stands at an elevation of approximately 1,400 metres above sea level in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu valley in central Nepa