The streets of Kathmandu once again reverberated with chants of “Come back king, save the country!” as thousands of Nepalis rallied to demand the restoration of the monarchy, abolished nearly 17 years ago in 2008. The protests, which have grown in intensity over recent months, reflect a deepening frustration with the nation’s political system and raise a pressing question: Why Nepal? Why now?
Nepal’s transition to a federal democratic republic in 2008 marked the end of a 239-year-old Hindu monarchy, a shift spurred by a decade-long Maoist insurgency and a popular uprising against then-King Gyanendra Shah’s authoritarian rule. The move was hailed as a victory for democracy, promising stability and progress. Yet, as Nepal approaches the two-decade mark of its republican experiment, dissatisfaction has fueled a surprising resurgence of pro-monarchy sentiment.
Today’s demonstrations, organized by groups like the royalist Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and bolstered by grassroots movements, saw protesters waving national flags and calling for Gyanendra Shah’s reinstatement. The former king, now 77, has remained silent on the protests but has issued statements in recent months expressing concern over Nepal’s economic woes and political instability, subtly fanning the flames of nostalgia for royal rule.
So, why are Nepalis protesting for the monarchy’s return? Analysts point to a cocktail of grievances: rampant corruption, economic stagnation, and a revolving door of unstable governments—13 in 17 years since the monarchy’s fall. “The political parties promised change, but all we’ve seen is chaos,” said Ramesh Thapa, a 42-year-old shopkeeper at the rally. “The king was a symbol of unity. Now, we’re divided and desperate.”
The economy offers little respite. Youth unemployment has soared, driving unemployment has soared, driving thousands of young Nepalis abroad in search of work, while those who remain grapple with rising costs and crumbling infrastructure. Protesters argue that the monarchy, once a stabilizing force, could restore national pride and order. “We were a Hindu kingdom, a united people,” said protester Sita Kumari. “Now, we’re lost.”
Yet, the push for monarchy isn’t without controversy. Last week’s protests turned violent, leaving two dead and over 100 injured as police clashed with demonstrators in Kathmandu. The government, led by Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, has condemned the unrest, accusing Gyanendra of orchestrating it to reclaim power. Oli warned on Monday of “severe action” against the former king, while the Nepali Congress, the largest parliamentary party, called for his accountability.
Critics argue that nostalgia clouds reality. Gyanendra’s 2005 power grab, dissolving parliament and ruling by decree, sparked the 2006 uprising that ousted him.
The protests show no sign of abating. For many Nepalis, the question isn’t just why protest, but why not? With faith in democracy waning, the monarchy looms as a symbol of what was—and what might be again. Whether it’s a viable solution or a romanticized past remains Nepal’s defining dilemma.
