KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has asserted that Nepal cannot retreat from the republican system established through the people’s struggle.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 5th National Convention of the National Health Professional Federation in Kathmandu on Saturday, PM Oli said the absolute autocratic regime had been dismantled through public effort, and there is no going back from the republic.
Questioning the nature of recent protests, Oli asked, “If they say they’ll chase the Prime Minister away — is that peaceful?”
He urged the public to reflect on the country’s situation during 250 years of monarchy and compare it to where Nepal stands today.
He claimed that the royalist protests had started with paid participants, but turnout declined on the second and third days.
Oli emphasized that the focus should not be on reviving the monarchy, but on moving forward with good governance and development.
He warned that trying to pull back a horse moving forward could earn one a kick, adding that it is shameful to talk about reinstating monarchy just to protect inherited wealth by placing it above the constitution.
The prime minister also highlighted the need to protect the system earned through struggle, and said that while reforms may be necessary, they should aim to enhance democracy, not reverse it.
He urged everyone to strengthen the democratic system and safeguard the achievements gained through collective effort.
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