KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said there is no alternative to the federal democratic republican system where people choose their own leaders.
Addressing a special ceremony at Tundikhel on the occasion of Republic Day 2025, Prime Minister Oli said a republican system, which upholds the dignity and rights of every citizen, is the only viable governance model for Nepal.
Highlighting the remarkable progress in sectors like education, health, enterprise, employment, and infrastructure under the republican setup, he called for unity to further strengthen and institutionalize the system.
“Good governance, transparency, and accountability are the backbone of a republican system,” said the Prime Minister. “We are committed to making it stronger. We are working to fulfill the national aspiration of a ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali.’”
He clarified that the republic belongs to the people, not to any political party.
“Democratic republicanism is a system of government by the people, for the people. In this system, the people have the right to choose and change their leaders—from ward members to the president,” he said. “This means citizens themselves bear the responsibility for both the successes and shortcomings of governance.”
Oli also highlighted Nepal’s inclusive electoral system, stating that over 36,057 representatives from diverse communities and ethnic groups are currently elected through public voting.
Reflecting on the achievements of republicanism compared to the monarchy, he questioned: “Where were we in terms of development indicators before the republic, and where are we now? How many schools and hospitals existed during the 250 years of monarchy compared to now? How many kilometers of roads were built then versus now? How much has poverty reduced, and how many now have access to electricity and clean drinking water?”
He credited these improvements to the democratic republican system, describing May 29 as a day of historic significance.
“Today marks the anniversary of the declaration of Nepal as a federal democratic republic in 2008, a milestone achieved through years of struggle and the sacrifice of thousands. This day symbolizes a transition from a monarchy ruled by decree to a system governed by the will of the people.”
“We didn’t just receive the republic—we earned it,” he concluded. “It came through dedication, sacrifice, and the collective decision of the people, not from a royal command.”
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