Thousands of supporters of Nepal’s former monarch Gyanendra Shah gathered outside Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu on Friday, demanding the restoration of the monarchy abolished nearly two decades ago. The dramatic show of royalist support comes amid political uncertainty and public frustration with the country’s republican system.

Gyanendra, who ruled Nepal until the monarchy was scrapped in 2008, waved to cheering crowds from the sunroof of his vehicle as he returned from a trip to eastern Nepal. Demonstrators chanted slogans calling for a constitutional monarchy and hailed him as a national saviour.

Despite prohibitory orders banning large gatherings near the airport, supporters assembled in large numbers. Security forces deployed heavily around the site managed the crowd, but the protest remained peaceful with no reported arrests.

Royalist Supporters Defy Restrictions

Supporters lined the route from the airport to the former king’s private residence, waving national flags and offering flowers. Many expressed deep disillusionment with Nepal’s political leadership, arguing that the monarchy could provide stability and unity.

Participants included cadres of the pro-monarchist Rastriya Prajatantra Party and groups led by activists such as Kamal Thapa, Navaraj Subedi and Durga Prasai. Organisers had reportedly mobilised supporters since early morning.

Authorities had prohibited assemblies of more than five people in the airport area due to security concerns. However, the scale of the turnout overwhelmed enforcement efforts.

Why Calls For Monarchy Are Returning

Nepal abolished its centuries-old monarchy in 2008 after mass protests in 2006 forced Gyanendra to relinquish direct rule. The country transitioned to a federal democratic republic, but political instability has persisted.

In the past 18 years, Nepal has seen frequent government changes, economic challenges and widespread dissatisfaction with political elites. Critics of the current system argue that it has failed to deliver development, jobs and stability.

Renewed royalist sentiment gained momentum last year amid economic distress and allegations of corruption. Some demonstrators believe a constitutional monarch could serve as a unifying figure above partisan politics.

Elections And Political Uncertainty Ahead

The demonstrations come ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for early March, heightening political tensions. Royalist groups, which previously secured only a small share of seats, are seeking to expand their influence.

Nepal’s interim leadership is navigating a volatile environment marked by youth-led protests, governance challenges and public distrust. While the show of support for Gyanendra was significant, analysts say an immediate restoration of the monarchy remains unlikely without broader political backing.

Nevertheless, the airport rally underscores a growing nostalgia for the monarchy among sections of the population and signals that the issue could play a role in upcoming electoral debates.

For now, Nepal faces a familiar crossroads between republican governance and a resurgent royalist movement seeking to reshape the country’s political future.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share