Kathmandu: Prominent leaders from Nepal’s major political parties have unequivocally rejected the possibility of reinstating the dethroned monarchy. Speaking to reporters from the state-owned RSS news agency, they called on the public not to be swayed by recent pro-monarchy demonstrations, asserting that Nepal's future lies firmly within the framework of a democratic republic.

They emphasized that the monarchy is a part of Nepal's history and warned pro-monarchists against entertaining the idea of its return, noting that any such movement poses a threat to the political stability of the nation.

Protests for Monarchy Are Objectionable: NC Chief Whip Ghimire
Shyam Kumar Ghimire, Chief Whip of the Nepali Congress (NC), acknowledged that former King Gyanendra Shah’s supporters have every right to welcome him. However, he criticized the calls for monarchy restoration, labeling them "objectionable and indigestible."

“The dream of reinstating the monarchy would ultimately harm the former king himself,” Ghimire said, advising Gyanendra Shah to respect his current status as the former head of state rather than encourage unconstitutional ambitions.

Monarchy Reinstatement Is Impossible: UML Chief Whip Bartaula
Mahesh Kumar Bartaula, Chief Whip of the CPN-UML, echoed similar sentiments. He said there is no alternative to democracy and the republic system in Nepal. According to him, monarchy was abolished by the people’s movement, and any attempt to restore it through direct rule would be rejected by the people.

“Activities in the name of the former king are sowing political instability and anarchy. Such efforts cannot steer the nation in the right direction,” Bartaula stated, adding that “reinstatement of monarchy in Nepal is an impossible thing.” He reiterated that the solution to governance challenges lies within the democratic system, not outside of it.

Public Discontent Being Exploited, Warns JSP Chair Yadav
Raj Kishor Yadav, Chairman of the Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) Nepal, pointed out that certain groups are exploiting public dissatisfaction with political parties and governance. However, he believes these movements will fade once political parties demonstrate sincerity in addressing citizens' concerns.

“The awareness of Nepali society, the country’s current needs, and the global context do not permit a return to monarchy,” Yadav remarked. He urged the former king to avoid being manipulated by factions seeking to destabilize the republic, warning that whimsical moves on his part could harm both himself and the nation.

Monarchy Cannot Replace Republic: RSP Acting Spokesperson Jha
Manish Jha, Acting Spokesperson for the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), acknowledged that the activities surrounding the former king reflect public frustration with government inefficiency and corruption. However, he stressed that the alternative to democracy is “better democracy,” not monarchy.

“Monarchy can never be an alternative to a republic,” Jha insisted, adding that the former king has yet to admit past mistakes committed during his reign. He also advised Gyanendra Shah to operate within the boundaries of the constitution and the rule of law.

Consensus Needed for Stronger Democracy
All leaders agreed that the current frustrations and grievances among the public need to be addressed by political parties through sincere governance and service delivery. They emphasized that strengthening participatory and transparent democracy is the only way forward for Nepal.