Tue Mar 11 12:41:52 UTC 2025: ## Thousands in Nepal Demand Return of Monarchy Amidst Economic Crisis

**Kathmandu, Nepal** – Seventeen years after abolishing its 239-year-old Hindu monarchy, Nepal saw a surge of pro-monarchy sentiment this past Sunday. Over 10,000 people rallied in Kathmandu, calling for the return of former King Gyanendra Shah, chanting slogans like “Come King, save the nation.” The demonstrations highlight widespread discontent with the current political system, characterized by instability, rampant corruption, soaring inflation, high unemployment, and a lack of economic development.

The country has seen 13 different governments since the monarchy’s abolition in 2008, leading to widespread disillusionment. Protesters cited a lack of accountability among politicians, contrasting it with the perceived stability and order under the monarchy. One protester, Rajindra Kunwar, a teacher, stated, “The law applies to the public… but not politicians. That’s why we need the king.”

While the pro-monarchy movement isn’t entirely new – periodic protests have occurred since 2005, when Shah seized power before being forced to relinquish it – the current demonstrations are significantly larger and reflect the growing economic hardship facing Nepal. The IMF reports that economic growth has fallen from a high of nine percent in 2015 to under five percent last year, coupled with 4.6 percent inflation.

Although political analysts doubt Shah’s return to power, his recent travels throughout the country suggest he’s gauging public support. While he has publicly called for unity and national progress, he hasn’t explicitly declared his intention to reclaim the throne. The Rastriya Prajatantra Party, a Hindu nationalist party, is a key driver behind the current wave of pro-monarchy sentiment.

Even former anti-monarchy activists like Kulraj Shrestha, a carpenter, have changed their stance, citing pervasive corruption as the reason for their shift in allegiance. The widespread dissatisfaction with the current republican government appears to be fueling this resurgence of support for the monarchy. The situation highlights the complex political and economic challenges facing Nepal and the lingering influence of its historical past.

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