The Struggle for Monarchy in Nepal: A Reevaluation of Governance

Reports of massive protests across Nepal demanding the restoration of the monarchy haveecome a subject of international attention. The fervent calls from royalists to reintroduce a “Hindu Kingdom” have ignited a heated debate about the future of governance in the Himalayan nation. Here, we explore why pro-monarchy sentiment is rising and what this might mean for Nepal.

Pro-Monarchy Protests and Sentiment

In recent weeks, nationalist and royalist groups in Nepal have been organizing large-scale protests, demanding the return of the monarchy. The sentiment among pro-monarchs is strong and growing, with thousands marching in the capital and across the country citing resoundingly that “monarchy must return to save the country.”

Political parties such as the Rashtriya Prajatantra Party and Rashtriya Shakti have pledged to restore the Hindu monarchy, a move that has garnered significant support. These groups believe that the discredited Shah dynasty, the monarchy that was abolished in 2008, offers the only viable path forward for Nepal.

Underlying Causes and Implications

Protestors argue that the absence of the monarchy has led to a rise in corruption and political instability. Statements like “democracy has enriched Government staff and politicians while the general public has gotten poorer” underscore the frustration many feel with the existing political system.

However, the secular and republican forces in Nepal are worried. Their fear stems from the fear that the return of a monarchy could lead to a return to a form of government they believe has already been discredited. Sadesh Koirala, a leader of one of these parties, noted that very few major party leaders have publicly opposed these protests, leaving the secular and republican forces apprehensive.

Is Monarchy the Answer?

The impetus for a monarchy to return in Nepal is not without supporters. Groups like the Rashtriya Prajatantra Party and Rashtriya Shakti promise that a monarchy would bring stability and address the issues of corruption. But this oversimplified view overlooks the historical and global context of monarchy.

The world has long since moved beyond dictator monarchies, with leaders like former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ('Oli') remaining surprisingly silent on the issue. This silence may in fact strengthen the sentiment for monarchy, as it signifies the mainstream political parties' reluctance to engage with and counter the pro-monarchy movement.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

While the pro-monarchy movement has gained considerable momentum, it remains unclear if this sentiment will translate into a lasting political change. The appeal of populist agendas like the idea of a Hindu state and monarchy should not be underestimated, but the broader question remains: is a return to a monarchy the path to governance that Nepal needs?

The discredited Shah dynasty offers a questionable path forward, particularly given the failures of previous monarchies and the global shift towards democratic governance. A complete new monarchy might offer stability, but it could also lead to renewed conflicts and potential bloodshed. In the long run, Nepal needs a governance model that reflects the aspirations of its people and is grounded in democratic principles.

To conclude, while the pro-monarchy movement is gaining traction, it is essential to reevaluate the historical and contemporary context. The future of Nepal’s governance must be built on democratic principles and the will of its people, rather than a return to outdated and discredited systems of governance.