Nepal faces its worst political unrest in years as student-led protests escalate across the country. Demonstrators opposing a government ban on social media and demanding action against corruption clashed with security forces, leaving at least 19 people dead and hundreds injured. Protesters set fire to the homes of top political leaders, including President Ram Chandra Poudel and former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, and even torched the Parliament and Supreme Court buildings. Amid growing violence and pressure, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli resigned on Tuesday. Despite an indefinite curfew, protests continued in Kathmandu and other cities with chants like, “Punish the murderers in government. Stop killing children.”

Former King Gyanendra issues statement

Former King Gyanendra Shah, who has largely stayed out of politics since the monarchy was abolished in 2008, issued a rare public statement on Tuesday. He expressed sorrow over the deaths and urged protesters to remain peaceful.

“It is extremely tragic and condemnable that, instead of addressing the legitimate demands of the younger generation, lives were lost and many were injured,” the statement read. “I condemn the violence, which is against the norm of the peaceful Nepalese society.”

Gyanendra also acknowledged the protesters’ demands for good governance and economic discipline as legitimate and cautioned against the risk of external elements exploiting the unrest.

Who is Nepal’s king Gyanendra Shah?

Gyanendra ascended to the throne after the death of King Birendra in 2001 and ruled as an absolute monarch for two years before facing mass street protests. In 2008, Nepal abolished its 239-year-old monarchy and became a federal democratic republic.

Despite stepping down, Gyanendra remains a symbolic figure for many Nepalis, especially royalists who view him as a symbol of stability and tradition. His recent statement highlights the continuing influence he holds in the country’s political and social landscape.

Bring Back King protests in March

In March this year, thousands of royalists rallied in Kathmandu demanding the restoration of the monarchy and Hinduism as the state religion. Chants of “Long live our beloved king” and “Vacate the royal palace for the king” echoed through the streets.

An estimated 10,000 supporters blocked the main entrance to Tribhuvan International Airport as Gyanendra returned from a tour of western Nepal. Protesters carried flags and banners calling for his reinstatement. The demonstration disrupted airport operations, but no violence was reported.

With Prime Minister Oli gone and public trust in politicians low, attention now turns to Nepal’s deeply divided parliament.