A Royal Return: Nepal’s Former King Gyanendra Shah Welcomed Back to Kathmandu

Thousands of supporters gathered at Kathmandu’s airport on Sunday, March 9, to welcome back Nepal’s former king, Gyanendra Shah, as he returned to the capital after a recent tour of the country. The former monarch, who ruled Nepal until the monarchy was abolished in 2008, was greeted with cheers, chants, and waved Nepalese flags. The crowd chanted slogans like "Come king, save the nation," reflecting a growing sentiment among some Nepalis who are disillusioned with the country’s current political climate. Shah’s return to Kathmandu comes amid increasing calls for the restoration of the monarchy and the reestablishment of Nepal as a Hindu state, highlighting the ongoing debate over the nation’s identity and governance.

A Nation in Flux: The Journey from Monarchy to Republic

Nepal’s transition from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic in 2008 marked a significant shift in its political history. The abolition of the monarchy was part of a peace agreement that ended a decade-long civil war, which claimed the lives of over 16,000 people. The Maoist insurgents, who led the rebellion against the monarchy, played a key role in the transition, advocating for a secular and inclusive government. However, over a decade later, dissatisfaction with the country’s political instability, widespread corruption, and sluggish economic development has reignited discussions about the monarchy’s potential role in restoring stability.

A Growing Cry for Change: Support for the Monarchy

The resurgence of pro-monarchy sentiment in Nepal is driven by a sense of frustration among citizens who feel that the current political system has failed to deliver on its promises. Many Nepalis are struggling with high prices, unemployment, inadequate education, and poor healthcare facilities. Rajindra Kunwar, a 43-year-old teacher who joined the crowd welcoming Shah, expressed his longing for the monarchy, stating, "The poor are dying of hunger. The law applies to the public, but not to politicians. That’s why we need the king back." Such sentiments reflect a perception that the monarchy represented a more orderly and just system, even as critics argue that the institution was often detached from the people’s needs.

The Former King’s Stance: A Call for Unity and Prosperity

Gyanendra Shah, now 77 years old, has largely avoided direct involvement in Nepal’s contentious political landscape since his ousting in 2008. However, his recent public appearances and statements have sparked speculation about his intentions. On the eve of Democracy Day last month, Shah issued a statement urging his countrymen to unite for the sake of Nepal’s prosperity and progress. While he did not explicitly call for the restoration of the monarchy, his words were interpreted by many as a signal of support for the growing pro-monarchy movement. Shah’s statement, combined with his visible presence at public events, has further fueled the debate over the monarchy’s potential role in Nepal’s future.

The Monarchy Debate: A Divisive but Relevant Issue

The debate over the monarchy’s restoration is a deeply divisive issue in Nepal, with opinions sharply divided among citizens, politicians, and intellectuals. Supporters of the monarchy argue that it could provide a unifying force in a country often plagued by political fragmentation and instability. They highlight the monarchy’s historical role as a symbol of national identity and stability, particularly during times of crisis. On the other hand, opponents contend that the monarchy represents an undemocratic and outdated system that perpetuated inequality and oppression. They emphasize the importance of upholding the principles of republicanism and secularism enshrined in Nepal’s constitution.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Uncertainties

As Nepal grapples with its political and economic challenges, the question of whether the monarchy could play a role in addressing these issues remains uncertain. While the pro-monarchy movement has gained momentum, it faces significant hurdles, including opposition from political parties and the need for constitutional amendments. Meanwhile, Gyanendra Shah’s return to Kathmandu serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the monarchy in Nepal’s collective consciousness. Whether this legacy will translate into a revival of the monarchy or remain a symbolic gesture of nostalgia remains to be seen. For now, the former king’s presence has reignited a national conversation about the monarchy’s place in Nepal’s future.