On the 15th anniversary of Nepal’s move from monarchy to republic, the streets of Kathmandu were the scene of clashes between pro-monarchy protestors and the police. Options for crowd control, such as rattan sticks, water cannons and tear gas, were used by the authorities to forcefully disperse thousands of protestors. The demonstration, initially peaceful, transpired in the New Road area of Kathmandu, with chants of support for former King Gyanendra Shah. However, the situation escalated when protestors attempted to break through a barricade protecting governmental buildings, prompting a strong response from the police. Footage from the protest captures the turmoil and chaos of the day.
The formation of Nepal’s Constituent Assembly on December 24, 2007, was a key moment in the nation’s transition to a republic. This assembly declared that the monarchy would be abolished following the assembly elections in 2008. On May 28th, 2008, Nepal officially transitioned from monarchy to republic.
This pivot was enabled by significant official documents, including the Comprehensive Peace Accord (CPA) signed between the Nepalese government and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) in 2006. The accord laid out plans for the establishment of a republic. The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, further embedded the nation’s federal structure, safeguarded fundamental rights, and established an autonomous judiciary. The Constitution signaled a significant shift in Nepal’s political landscape.
However, the abolition of the monarchy has not laid to rest all the divisions in Nepalese society. Some elements continue to romanticize the era of monarchic rule, advocating for its return based on views that the monarchy was a symbol of national identity and a provider of stability. Conversely, those in favor of a republic view the monarchy as an obsolete governance system that hindered progress and entrenched inequality. Regardless of these differing viewpoints, the dispute showcases the enduring political and social tensions afflicting Nepal.
Critics argue that the current dissatisfactions with the Nepalese government could be traced back to the abolition of the monarchy, asserting that the monarchy offered greater stability and economic prosperity. Whether or not the monarchy is reinstated, it’s clear that addressing these deep-rooted divisions is essential for securing the future of Nepal.
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