Former king Gyanendra Shah has called for the postponement of the March 5 parliamentary election, warning that holding the vote amid growing public dissatisfaction could deepen the country’s political crisis.
In a video message released on the eve of Democracy Day, Shah said the election is being pushed forward despite protests and widespread disagreement. He argued that conducting polls against public sentiment would not bring long-term stability.
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Election Alone Cannot Solve the Crisis”
Shah said Nepal is facing serious political and institutional challenges. According to him, the electoral process alone cannot resolve the current instability. He also questioned the legitimacy of the interim government overseeing the election, claiming it was not formed through a fully constitutional process.
The former monarch urged citizens to remain alert and protect national unity. He warned that internal divisions could further weaken the country during what he described as an “existential crisis.”
At the same time, Shah clarified that he does not support political actors using his name or the monarchy agenda to seek votes.
Government Rejects the Call
The government quickly dismissed Shah’s remarks. A minister said the country is fully prepared for the March 5 elections and rejected any suggestion of postponement.
“The entire nation is in election mode. Political parties, security agencies, and the bureaucracy are committed to holding the vote,” the minister said, calling Shah’s statement “meaningless.”
Authorities have also detained controversial medical entrepreneur Durga Prasain on charges of attempting to disrupt the election process.
Support from Pro-Monarchy Leaders
Shah’s comments have received backing from leaders of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), which supports constitutional monarchy.
Senior RPP leader Kamal Thapa said Shah’s view that elections should follow the resolution of national problems is “important and timely.” He urged political parties to seek consensus before moving ahead with the vote.
Royalist supporters also interpreted Shah’s message as an indirect call to reconsider participation in the election.
Political Significance
Shah was removed from power in 2008 when Nepal abolished its centuries-old monarchy. However, ongoing political instability and frequent government changes have kept him relevant in public debate.
His latest statement is widely seen as an attempt to influence the national political discourse ahead of the March 5 election.
