Kathmandu: Nepal’s political discourse sharpened ahead of the March 5 House of Representatives election after former king Gyanendra Shah released an eight minute video message urging political forces to build national consensus before heading to the ballot.
In his address, the ex-monarch described the country as being in a “painful phase” and argued that elections, while central to democracy, are not sufficient to resolve deep structural challenges. He cautioned that unresolved grievances could trigger instability after voting, and called on stakeholders to avoid divisions.
Call for unity before polls
Shah stressed that public sentiment favoured resolving national concerns prior to conducting elections. He did not outline a concrete roadmap for achieving such consensus but framed his appeal around collective responsibility and inclusive governance.
Referring broadly to past political movements and reforms, he questioned whether successive transitions had delivered meaningful progress. He urged citizens and leaders alike to prioritise cooperation over partisan rivalry, saying democracy should encourage people to take ownership of national development.
Political context and party response
The statement comes as preparations for the general election gather pace. The pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party has confirmed it will contest the polls, keeping debate alive over the role of monarchy in public discourse, even though Nepal has been a republic since 2008.
The election was advanced following the youth-led protests in 2025 that reshaped the political landscape and led to early parliamentary polls. Mainstream parties have maintained that the electoral process remains the constitutional route to address public concerns.
Critics question intent
Political analysts and commentators have questioned the practical implications of Shah’s remarks, noting that he no longer holds formal authority. Some argue that while his appeal for unity resonates symbolically, it lacks specific policy proposals.
Nepal formally abolished its monarchy on 28 May 2008 after the Constituent Assembly voted to declare the country a republic, bringing centuries of royal rule to an end. Since then, the former king has periodically issued public statements on national affairs, often framed around themes of stability and identity.
As the campaign season unfolds, attention remains focused on how voters respond and whether the former monarch’s intervention shapes the broader political conversation in any measurable way.