UML, royalists set for separate demonstrations in Kathmandu on Republic Day

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu is bracing for two opposing rallies on Republic Day, with the ruling CPN-UML and pro-monarchy groups set to hold separate demonstrations on Thursday, May 29.

The CPN-UML is planning a cultural parade from Bhrikutimandap to Ratnapark in celebration of Republic Day. Party leaders, cadres, and artists will showcase cultural processions promoting the republican system. The rally will pass through Bhrikutimandap, Bhadrakali, Shahid Gate, Sundhara, and end at Shantibatika in Ratnapark.

In contrast, royalist and Hindu nationalist parties, including Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) and RPP-Nepal, along with over 45 other aligned organizations, have announced protests against the republic on the same day.

The main protest is being organized by the Joint People’s Movement Committee for the Restoration of Monarchy, led by Navaraj Subedi. The committee has said that Thursday’s demonstration will be held at Ratna Park’s Shanti Vatika.

Although both sides have pledged peaceful rallies, tensions have risen following a controversial statement by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who claimed that Kathmandu would be “under UML’s control” on Republic Day, prompting backlash from royalist leaders.

On Tuesday, leaders such as Kamal Thapa, Rajendra Lingden, and Navaraj Subedi assured editors during a press interaction in Baneshwor that their protest would be peaceful but raised concerns over potential state suppression in light of the Prime Minister’s remarks.

Adding to the complexity, Republic Day also coincides with a constitutional deadline to present the national budget in Parliament. However, ongoing opposition obstruction over demands for Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak’s resignation has raised doubts over whether the budget session will proceed.

To manage potential unrest, authorities have prepared to deploy 4,500 security personnel throughout Kathmandu. Traffic disruptions and public inconvenience are expected in core areas of the city.

All government offices will remain closed on Thursday in observance of Republic Day.