Oli Rejects Monarchy, Challenges Former King to Contest Elections

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has firmly dismissed any chance of Nepal returning to monarchy in Nepal, challenging former King Gyanendra Shah to contest the 2027 elections if he seeks power. 

Speaking at the inauguration of Nepal’s largest paper industry in Mahottari, Oli said Nepal’s constitution does not recognize kingship and democracy will not be reversed.

“If the former king is truly loved by the people, he should contest elections rather than expect to return to power just by sitting on the throne,” Oli said.

His remarks come amid growing royalist activities, with leaders like RPP’s Rajendra Lingden and Durga Prasai rallying support for the restoration of monarchy. The debate intensified after Gyanendra Shah’s recent video message on Democracy Day, which sparked discussions on the relevance of monarchy in Nepal.

Oli asserted that Nepal will continue on the path of constitutional democracy and that leadership must be earned through elections, not inheritance.