KATHMANDU: The 19th Republic Day is being observed across the country today with various celebratory programs.
The day marks the establishment of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, officially declared on May 28, 2008 (Jestha 15, 2065 BS), when the first Constituent Assembly elected by the people formally abolished the monarchy.
To mark the occasion, the government has declared a public holiday, while a special program is being held at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu.
Nepal’s transition to a republic began after King Gyanendra assumed direct rule on February 1, 2005. In response, a 12-point agreement was signed between the Seven-Party Alliance and the then CPN (Maoist), bringing together previously divided political forces in a joint movement for full democracy.
The movement gained momentum in November 2005 and culminated in the people’s movement of April 2006, during which thousands of citizens took to the streets demanding democratic reform. Amid mounting public pressure, King Gyanendra was forced to reinstate the dissolved House of Representatives.
The reinstated parliament subsequently curtailed the powers of the monarchy and initiated the peace process, including the integration of the Maoists into mainstream politics and preparations for Constituent Assembly elections.
The Constituent Assembly elections were held in 2008, and on May 28 that year, the first meeting of the Assembly officially declared the end of Nepal’s 240-year-old monarchy and established the country as a republic.
To celebrate Republic Day 2083, the government has formed the ‘Republic Day Main Celebration Committee’ to coordinate national-level events and programs.
Comment