Kathmandu: Prime Minister and CPN (UML) Chairman KP Sharma Oli has issued a directive to party cadres to ensure Kathmandu remains under UML control on Jestha 15, warning against what he termed the “unnecessary agility” of royalist forces.

Addressing party members during a training program, Oli emphasized the importance of full participation and discipline, stating, “Start preparing for the 15th as soon as you wake up from here tomorrow. The party will issue further instructions, but be ready to do whatever is necessary.”

He stressed that the party must dominate the capital from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jestha 15, urging cadres not to worry about which organization takes the lead in organizing the day’s programs. “The focus must be on unity and visibility of the UML,” he added.

Taking a jab at monarchist groups, Oli said they are exploiting the current public silence and political vacuum, but they do not represent a noble cause. He criticized royalist slogans from the past such as “The king is more precious than life,” questioning their loyalty when King Birendra was assassinated.

“The royalists have shown agility not backed by principle or public support,” Oli said, adding that the UML must confront them head-on.

The remarks come amid a visible resurgence of monarchist sentiment in some parts of the country, and ahead of a symbolically charged date—Jestha 15, which marks the Republic Day in Nepal, commemorating the abolition of monarchy in 2008.