Royalists to hold show of strength as Former King Gyanendra returning to Kathmandu

KATHMANDU: Former King Gyanendra Shah is set to return to Kathmandu from Pokhara today, with royalists, including the pro-monarchy Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), planning a significant show of strength in the federal capital.

RPP leaders, cadres, and supporters will gather at Tribhuvan International Airport to welcome the former king.

After the reception, Shah will be escorted to Nirmal Niwas in Maharajgunj.

RPP spokesperson Gyanendra Shahi has urged everyone to join the event, stating on social media, “I warmly invite everyone to be present at the airport at 1 PM on Falgun 25.” He also encouraged attendees to use any available means of transport to reach the venue.

The royalist movement has gained momentum after former King Gyanendra, on Democracy Day (Falgun 7), raised the issue of restoring the monarchy. Since then, RPP and other pro-monarchy groups have intensified their protests, claiming the return of the monarchy is imminent.

The issue has sparked discussions within major political parties. Prime Minister and UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli has strongly opposed any attempts to reinstate the monarchy. Speaking at an event in Mahottari on Falgun 22, Oli questioned, “How can the monarchy, which was rejected by the people, be reinstated?”

Meanwhile, the CPN (Maoist Centre) has postponed its Terai-Madhes Awakening Campaign. General Secretary Dev Gurung cited the need for further discussions with republican forces, considering the evolving political situation.

Leaders from the ruling UML have expressed varied reactions to the royalist protests. A recent meeting between Prime Minister Oli and President Ram Chandra Paudel on Saturday evening has also drawn attention.

During his visit to Gandaki Province, former King Gyanendra visited several temples and unveiled a statue of the late King Birendra in Pokhara.

In response to the planned demonstrations, the government is tightening security in Kathmandu. Nepal Police estimates around 10,000 participants in the royalist rally, prompting authorities to deploy all security forces to maintain order.