KATHMANDU: The 20th ‘Loktantra Diwas’ (Democracy Day) is being observed across the country today with various programs and events.
On April 25, 2006, the then King Gyanendra Shah reinstated the House of Representatives, which had been dissolved on May 22, 2002 (Jestha 8, 2059), following sustained protests by political parties and the public. Since 2006, this day has been commemorated annually as Democracy Day to mark the people’s victory.
After the dissolution of Parliament, elections could not be held due to the ongoing armed conflict. During this period, the king repeatedly appointed and dismissed prime ministers at his discretion, including Lokendra Bahadur Chand, Surya Bahadur Thapa, and Sher Bahadur Deuba.
Following King Gyanendra’s direct takeover of power on February 1, 2005, a 12-point agreement was reached between the seven-party alliance and the then insurgent Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist). This agreement unified the political forces and intensified the people’s movement.
The mass movement, led by Girija Prasad Koirala, gained significant momentum in early 2006. Thousands of people took to the streets, demanding the restoration of democracy.
Amid widespread protests, King Gyanendra announced the reinstatement of Parliament, paving the way for democratic transition. This day is therefore regarded as a turning point toward establishing a republic.
On June 4, 2006, the reinstated Parliament curtailed the powers of the monarchy and initiated the peace process, including bringing the Maoists into mainstream politics and committing to Constituent Assembly elections. This historic decision is often referred to as Nepal’s “Magna Carta.”
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