‘Restore Monarchy’: Massive Welcome for Nepal’s Former King
Nepal’s monarchy still holds sway over its people. This became clear when 10,000 supporters flocked to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome former King Gyanendra Shah. The 77-year-old ex-monarch who ruled until 2008 was greeted by crowds chanting “We want our King back” while hundreds of riot police managed the passionate gathering.
The country has faced political chaos after the monarchy’s abolition in 2008, ending its 240-year reign. Political instability has forced the nation to cycle through 13 different governments, and problems are systemic with corruption and governmental inefficiency. Public calls to restore the monarchy have grown stronger since February 2025. Supporters point to their frustration with rising prices, unemployment, and poor public services under the current political system.
Crowds Flood Kathmandu Streets as Ex-King Returns
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How Did Nepal’s Monarchy Fall in 2008?
[No content provided to rewrite]Why Do Nepalis Want Monarchy Back?
People’s frustration with Nepal’s political system has sparked rising support to bring back the monarchy. The country’s economic problems and systemic corruption have made many citizens rethink their stand on monarchical rule.
Nepal’s political scene shows no stability. The country has gone through 13 different governments since abolishing monarchy in 2008. This constant change makes it impossible to create lasting policies that work. Multiple parties form coalition governments, which adds to this instability.
Money troubles have made people even more unhappy. The nation faces tough times with both farming and industry taking a hit. The cement sector, a vital part of the economy, runs at just 30% capacity. An inflation rate of 8.19% keeps eating away at people’s money.
Support for monarchy got a big boost when the Rastriya Prajatantra Party brought 2 million signatures to parliament. They want a vote on bringing back the monarchy and making Nepal a Hindu state again. Right now, the party holds 14 parliament seats, about 5% of the total.
Some people who once opposed monarchy have changed their minds. Take Kulraj Shrestha, a 50-year-old carpenter. He backed removing the monarchy but now thinks differently. “I was in the protests that took away monarchy hoping it would help the country, but I was mistaken and the nation has further plunged so I have changed my mind”.
Bad economic conditions hit young job seekers hard. About 1,500 young Nepalis leave their country each day to find work abroad. This mass exit has caused:
- Lower demand for local goods and services
- Less consumer spending everywhere
- Weaker private sector confidence
Political experts say several things drive this pro-monarchy feeling. The failures of federalism show up in ethnic and regional gaps. Some citizens think monarchy might offer better central control and faster results. Recent scandals like the Lalita Niwas Land Scam and Bhutanese Refugee Scam involving former ministers have shaken people’s faith in current politics.
The World Bank says Nepal’s economy might grow by 3.9% this fiscal year, well below the government’s 6% goal. Experts doubt even 3% growth looks possible given poor farming results. The International Monetary Fund warns of a possible money crisis without quick fixes.
Groups supporting monarchy say its return could bring stability and protect Nepal’s identity. “The king is the umbrella that is really needed to block and protect the country from all the pressure and influence that is put on Nepal by countries like India, China or America”. Yet analysts say bringing back monarchy soon seems unlikely, despite growing support for the former king.
Nepal faces a turning point as citizens increasingly support bringing back the monarchy. Political instability has plagued the country with 13 different governments since 2008. The nation’s economic struggles have sparked widespread public dissatisfaction. High inflation rates and industrial slowdowns have pushed many former monarchy opponents to rethink their position.
Several factors fuel this growing support for monarchy. The country loses about 1,500 young people each day as they leave to find work abroad. This massive exodus has shaken people’s faith in the current system. Many citizens now see the monarchy as their best hope to bring back stability and shield national interests from outside pressure.
Pro-monarchy groups have gathered strong backing with 2 million people’s signatures to ask for a referendum. Yet analysts say bringing back the monarchy right away seems unlikely. These events point to deeper problems in Nepal’s political system. Public anger over corruption and poor governance continues to shape the country’s path forward.
