'Does Sitting on a Chair Make You a King?’ KP Oli Challenges Monarchy Movement

Is Nepal Heading Towards a Monarchical Revival? PM KP Oli Responds to the Growing Debate

Nepal’s political landscape has once again been stirred by the growing discourse surrounding the return of monarchy. In recent months, public rallies, social media campaigns, and street demonstrations have highlighted increasing support for former King Gyanendra Shah, reflecting the dissatisfaction many Nepalis feel with the current democratic system.

 Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has now entered the debate, addressing the political instability and the role of the former king in a powerful speech. His statement comes at a time when thousands of pro-monarchy supporters are rallying across Nepal, calling for the reinstatement of the monarchy and the return of Nepal as a Hindu kingdom.

PM Oli’s Strong Message to Former King Gyanendra

KP Oli, the chairman of the CPN-UML, did not hold back in his remarks regarding the former king’s involvement in politics. Speaking firmly, Oli questioned the legitimacy of Gyanendra Shah’s actions and the implications they carry for Nepal’s democratic progress.

He stated:

“Support me, I will come and save the country. What has happened to the country? The activities driven by their instability and their influence are putting the nation in trouble...

I want to give him (former King Gyanendra) a suggestion... As a former monarch, as someone who ruled for generations, he should be guiding the country towards a civilized and cultured democratic path, ensuring governance according to the constitution and the law. But instead, is he asking for support in elections? Is he asking for votes? What exactly is he seeking?

...Ram Chandra Poudel has been elected as the President and is serving as the Head of State. Just by placing someone on a chair, does that make them a king?”

This statement directly challenges the growing demand for a monarchy and questions the legitimacy of Gyanendra Shah’s re-engagement with politics. Oli’s remarks underline a key concern: should a former monarch, who was removed from power by a democratic movement, actively participate in political affairs?

The Growing Call for Monarchy in Nepal

Since the abolition of the monarchy in 2008, Nepal has been a federal democratic republic. However, many citizens express frustration over frequent government changes, corruption, and economic instability, leading to a renewed nostalgia for the days of monarchy. Pro-royalist groups argue that the monarchy provided political stability and safeguarded Nepal’s cultural identity as a Hindu nation.

Recent rallies have seen large crowds welcoming former King Gyanendra, chanting slogans for his return. His presence and the rising support for monarchy have reignited the debate on whether Nepal’s current democratic system has failed to meet public expectations.

The Democratic Counterargument

Supporters of Nepal’s republic argue that while democracy has faced challenges, reverting to monarchy is not the solution. They highlight that corruption and instability are governance issues, not necessarily a flaw in the democratic system itself. The way forward, they argue, is strengthening institutions, improving transparency, and holding leaders accountable.

KP Oli’s comments reflect this viewpoint. He challenges the idea that simply reinstating a king would solve Nepal’s problems. His message suggests that the focus should be on fixing governance, not reversing history.

What’s Next for Nepal?

The debate over monarchy is far from over. As protests and discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether this movement will gain serious political momentum or fade as democratic reforms progress.

For now, leaders like KP Oli are making it clear that Nepal’s future should be shaped through democratic principles, rather than a return to royal rule.

What do you think? Should Nepal reconsider monarchy, or should democracy be given a chance to evolve and improve? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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