Resurging monarchist sentiment in Nepal: Challenges to democratic redemption
Resurging monarchist sentiment in Nepal: Challenges to democratic redemption
WRITTEN BY MANISH JUNG PULAMI
21 December 2023
On 23 November 2023, thousands of pro-monarchy protesters took to the streets in Kathmandu, Nepal, demanding the restoration of the monarchy, which was abolished in 2008. The protests were led by two rival groups: the Youth Organisation Nepal (YON), affiliated with the main opposition political party, the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) (CPN-UML), and the Durga Prasai Group, led by businessman Durga Prasai. The YON protesters called for the ouster of the current government led by Maoist leader Pushpa Kamal Dahal (also known as Prachanda) and an end to corruption, while the Durga Prasai Group sought the restoration of monarchy and declaration of Nepal as the Hindu Kingdom, which the former group opposes.
The protests turned violent when some demonstrators clashed with the police, who responded with tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets. At least 30 people were injured, including five police officers. The protests continued throughout the day, and there were reports of further clashes between protesters and police.
The protests are the latest in a series of pro-monarchy demonstrations that have taken place in Nepal in recent years. They are the outcome of the deep-rooted frustration and disillusionment among the populace, fuelled by perceived failures of the political class, corruption, and a longing for stability and national identity.
Re-examining the role of monarchy in Nepal: A debate rekindled by recent protests
The role of a king in Nepal has long been a subject of debate, with the recent pro-monarchy protests reigniting discussions on the contentious topic. The protesters argue that the monarchy traditionally served as a unifying force in Nepal, potentially offering stability and prosperity to the country through historical narratives of its role in repelling foreign invasions and interventions, which the protestors believe has dwindled since its abolishment. Additionally, they view monarchy as a symbol of national pride and identity, reflecting the strong emotional and nationalistic attachment of Nepalese to their past. The monarchy is viewed as an institution patronising and upholding unique Nepalese art, culture, and traditions, which many perceive to be waning presently.
The pro-monarchy protests are a reminder that Nepal’s democratic journey is far from over. While the monarchy may be a relic of the past, the underlying grievances that fuelled the latest protests remain relevant today.
Thus, the protest is about reclaiming a sense of national pride, a sense of belonging to something bigger than oneself. The monarchy, as an institution, is also revered as a national emblem, perceived as the custodian of Nepalese culture and identity, and a figurehead who stands above the realm of political disputes providing stability amid political turbulences.
The post-2008 period in Nepal has been marred by political instability and corruption, prompting some to view the monarchy as a more effective and neutral form of governance. The sense of dissatisfaction with the implementation of federalism after 2008, marked by ethnic and regional disparities, has fuelled a pro-monarchy sentiment, seen by some as a longing for a potentially more centralised and efficient system. Additionally, socioeconomic concerns such as poverty and unemployment contribute to the belief and hope that a different system will prioritise these issues, driving support for the pro-monarchy movement.
While the exact size and group of the pro-monarchy supporters is unknown, recent protests have drawn in several hundred thousand participants, which suggests a substantial support base. It seems that a diverse group of Nepalese citizens, including right-wing royalists, pro-Hindu activists, youths, older generations, and other individuals frustrated by political instability, have joined the pro-monarchy protests.
Unpacking the resurgence of monarchic sentiments in Nepal
The recent pro-monarchy protests in Nepal manifest deep-rooted discontent and disappointment among the citizens who feel betrayed by their political leaders. Beyond a nostalgic yearning, these sentiments echo a vexed and aggrieved call for stability, unity, and a sense of national identity lost over the past years. The Nepalese people, renowned for their resilience and patience as Gurkhas, are reaching their breaking point. They have witnessed one political crisis after another, with successive governments failing to deliver on their promises and leaving the country mired in poverty, corruption, and instability.
Recent corruption scandals and scams, including the Lalita Niwas Land Scam where hundreds of government officials were charged, the fraudulent Bhutanese Refugee Scam involving former ministers and human rights activists, and the major bust of a Gold Smuggling Scandal incriminating top political leaders – all incidents this year – have further eroded public trust in the government. The revelation that those entrusted with the nation’s well-being were lining their pockets with ill-gotten wealth has struck a deep chord of anger and resentment. The public feels cheated, their hopes for a better future dashed against the rocks of rampant corruption.
Moreover, the failure of federalism which replaced the constitutional monarchy in 2008 due to power imbalances, weak coordination, political interference, and inadequate resources, touted as the panacea for Nepal’s ills, has only added to the frustration. The promised decentralisation of power has failed to materialise, leaving the people at the grassroots level feeling neglected and abandoned. The administrative inefficiencies and a failure to empower local governance structures have diminished the intended benefits of decentralisation. Ongoing struggles with resource distribution, coupled with a perceived lack of transparency and accountability, and the persistence of centralised decision-making with a concentration of power at the central level, contribute to a growing sense that federalism has not delivered on its promises. Also, the entrenched bureaucracy and the failure to distribute the advantages of federalism have contributed to the perception that the system is ineffective in addressing the diverse needs of the population.
The pro-monarchy movement in Nepal gained momentum amidst widespread disillusionment, presenting the monarchy as a symbol of stability and national identity. However, a nuanced understanding of the situation emphasises the need for an enduring and coordinated effort to eliminate corruption and establish effective governance, crucial for rebuilding public trust. The political class must prioritise transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs, breaking the cycle of disheartenment. Moreover, recognising the multifaceted nature of corruption, a comprehensive strategy including systemic reforms and preventative measures, is vital. The success depends on fostering integrity, instilling ethical values, and building inclusive governance structures. This can set the stage for a more resilient and sustainable democratic future in Nepal.
Political grievances and search for democratic redemption
The recent pro-monarchy protests in Nepal have also reignited debates about the country’s political future and the potential repercussions of the resurgence of monarchist sentiment. While the protests have subsided for now, the protesters’ underlying grievances and their simmering nostalgia for a bygone era could have far-reaching consequences for Nepal’s political landscape. One potential repercussion is a deepening of political instability. The rise of pro-monarchy sentiment could challenge the established republican system and fuel further political division. This could lead to increased political polarisation, making it difficult to forge consensus and implement effective policies.
An actual resurgence of monarchism could reignite ethnic and regional tensions, as different groups may have varying views on the role of the monarchy. Another potential consequence is a setback for Nepal’s democratic journey. The pro-monarchy movement could undermine the democratic gains made since 2008 and erode public trust in democratic institutions and processes. This could lead to a weakening of democratic norms and values, challenging principles such as popular sovereignty, equal representation, civic participation, and the separation of powers, making it more difficult to sustain a truly democratic system in Nepal.
However, the pro-monarchy protests could also serve as a wake-up call for Nepal’s political class. The widespread anguish and disappointment expressed by the protesters highlight the need for a radical change in the way politics is conducted in Nepal. The political parties need to shed their self-serving agendas and focus on addressing the pressing concerns of the people.
To move forward, Nepal’s political pathway should focus on inclusive and participatory governance. This involves strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring meaningful representation of all marginalised groups, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. Additionally, Nepal needs to address the root causes of discontent, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of economic opportunities.
The pro-monarchy protests are a reminder that Nepal’s democratic journey is far from over. While the monarchy may be a relic of the past, the underlying grievances that fuelled the latest protests remain relevant today. Only by addressing these grievances and charting a course towards a more inclusive and effective democratic system can Nepal achieve lasting stability and prosperity.
DISCLAIMER: All views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of the 9DASHLINE.com platform.
Author biography
Manish Jung Pulami is a Research Scholar at the Department of International Relations at the South Asian University, New Delhi, India. He was a Research Fellow at the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), Sichuan University, China. He is also the author of a book chapter entitled “Nostalgia of Monarchy and Contemporary Right-Wing Politics in Nepal” published in the book Interdisciplinary Reflections on South Asian Transitions: Exploring the Rise of Far Right Ideology (2023). Image credit: Unsplash/Pranish Shrestha (cropped).