In Kathmandu, Nepal, over 10,000 supporters of former King Gyanendra Shah rallied for the reinstatement of the abolished monarchy and the reestablishment of Hinduism as the state religion. When Gyanendra arrived from a tour of western Nepal, protesters blocked the main entrance to Tribhuvan International Airport, forcing passengers to walk. While riot police prevented the demonstrators from entering the airport, the protest remained nonviolent. The monarchy was abolished in 2008 following massive protests in 2006 against Gyanendra’s authoritarian rule, leading to a republic that many Nepalis feel has failed to bring stability, hinder corruption, and improve the economy. Rally participants, including former anti-monarchy protesters, expressed disillusionment with the current political system and voiced support for the king’s return. Despite the growing support, Gyanendra, who has remained silent on the calls for monarchy restoration, faces slim chances of an immediate return to power.
Growing Support for Monarchy’s Return in Nepal
