Nepal Debates Monarchy's Return Amid Political Instability

Discussions have intensified regarding a potential return of the monarchy in Nepal, following recent public appearances and statements by former King Gyanendra Shah. Nepal has experienced significant political instability since the monarchy's abolition in 2008.

Gyanendra Shah's Public Appearances Fuel Debate

In February, Gyanendra Shah was publicly welcomed by supporters in Kathmandu. He subsequently released a video message articulating his "unwavering sense of duty" and concern over the nation's condition.

Shah described the nation as being in an "unusual whirlwind of distress."

He suggested that parliamentary elections, scheduled for March 5, should only proceed after achieving national consensus to prevent post-election conflict.

Turbulent Political History and Growing Support

Since the abolition of the 239-year-old monarchy in 2008, Nepal has had 14 governments and nine prime ministers, highlighting persistent political instability. A youth-led movement in September of the previous year challenged the established political parties, contributing to a renewed public debate about the monarchy's potential restoration.

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), which secured 14 seats in the 2022 parliamentary election, openly advocates for the reinstatement of a constitutional monarchy. RPP leader Rabindra Mishra supported Shah's call for national consensus on the country's political direction.

Divided Opinions on Monarchy's Role

Former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai criticized Shah's statements, asserting that the Constituent Assembly lawfully abolished the monarchy and established a democratic republic. Political analyst CK Lal suggested Shah's actions might be an attempt to remain relevant.

The RPP views the monarchy as a "guardian institution" and a "unifying symbol" necessary for stability, proposing it would function as a ceremonial head of state above partisan politics. Bhattarai, however, dismissed the idea, stating that monarchy is obsolete and incompatible with Nepal's inclusive, secular constitution. Lal noted that while the monarchy holds symbolic resonance for some, particularly religiously minded elders, it has limited appeal to the younger generation.

Advocacy for a Hindu State

The RPP also advocates for reinstating Nepal as a Hindu state, a status it held until 2008. Mishra framed this as a measure for cultural preservation to protect Nepal's identity and maintain social cohesion, given that over 80 percent of the population identifies as Hindu. Bhattarai opposed this, stating that a nation-state should not have a religion and that enforcing one religious identity is anti-democratic.

Political analyst Lal observed a potential convergence of interests between monarchist and Hindu nationalist movements.

External Speculation and Historical References

Gyanendra Shah maintains a public profile without holding an official political role. Speculation about support from India, particularly from its ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which promotes a Hindu state ideology, has been discussed. A pro-monarchy rally in 2025 featured a poster of Yogi Adityanath, a prominent Indian Hindu nationalist politician. However, analyst Lal stated that foreign governments typically align with current power holders rather than former monarchs.

Monarchists often reference the 18th-century treatise "Dibya Upadesh" (Divine Counsel) by King Prithvi Narayan Shah, which describes Nepal's geopolitical position and advises cautious diplomacy and self-reliance. RPP's Mishra argues these principles remain relevant. Lal, however, characterized this as nostalgia, deeming an 18th-century doctrine insufficient for guiding a 21st-century republic.

Skeptical Outlook on Restoration

Political analyst CK Lal expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of the monarchy's restoration.