Kathmandu, April 13: Former King Gyanendra Shah has stated that upholding nationalism and democracy as core principles, our belief has always been in a multiparty democracy and a constitutional monarchy that aligns with the people’s sentiments.
In a video message on the beginning of Nepali new year 2082 BS, former king Gyanendra has further said, “The recent violence, arson, and vandalism during public demonstrations, which caused significant human and material losses, have deeply saddened us.”
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The New Year 2082 has arrived at our doorstep. On the occasion of this New Year, which brings new light, new energy, and new enthusiasm, I extend my heartfelt wishes for happiness and peace to all Nepalese living both in Nepal and abroad.
Every New Year arrives carrying fresh hopes and faith, but for many years, the departure of the old year has often been marked by deep disappointment. It is a beautiful feature of democracy that various groups, classes and communities in society can express their views, beliefs and opinions. However, such expressions must be exercised with restraint. The recent violence, arson, and vandalism during public demonstrations, which caused significant human and material losses, have deeply saddened us. No system or ideology is greater than civic freedom. True democracy exists where there is a tradition and culture of listening to both praise and criticism, grievances and appreciation.
We view the growing awareness among Nepalese people about the nation and its future positively. The patriotic sentiment among us is truly exemplary and worthy of emulation worldwide. The awakening to free the country from existing complexities and build a peaceful, stable, prosperous nation has instilled confidence that the New Year 2082 will bring results aligned with the aspirations of the Nepalese people.
It is well known that Nepal’s monarchy has consistently contributed to freeing the Nepalese people from unrest, anarchy, despair and dissatisfaction. Upholding nationalism and democracy as core principles, our belief has always been in a multi party democracy and a constitutional monarchy that aligns with the people’s sentiments. Even now, respecting the evolving aspirations of the people, it must always be established that the source of state power are the people themselves.
Could the divine teachings of the founder of the nation King Prithivinarayan Shah the great, serve as the guiding mantra for state governance moving forward? A balanced diplomatic approach and the vision of a self-reliant Nepal are the essence of his path. This should be the mainstream of politics.
Considering the changing global context, where globalization and free trade are being challenged, and amidst the severe economic downturn affecting developing nations like Nepal, the time has come to focus with unwavering determination on building a self-reliant economy. Indications are emerging that the global environment is shifting towards utilizing domestic resources to produce and consume locally, thereby making the nation’s overall economy self-sufficient and dynamic within its internal economic cycle.
In this land, one of the finest in the world, where even survival has become difficult, we must halt the increasing migration of youth and make optimal use of their labor and skills within the country. Creating an environment where opportunities for self-employment must be explored, making income generation possible in Nepal, has become today’s primary necessity. The mind body and focus, of every Nepalese must be dedicated to this cause.
Nepalese scattered across the globe must no longer delay in uniting under the bonds of solidarity. It is essential to generate awakening in everyone that as well as not only their knowledge, skills and capabilities but also their capital, resources and means they have earned abroad should be invested, somehow in Nepal. This beautiful Himalayan land, blessed by nature like paradise, must inspire others to strive to become a hub of prosperity and development. A campaign of “Return to the motherland, the motherland is paradise” has become today’s necessity.
It is clear that steps must be taken to understand the people’s sentiments and aspirations, bringing comprehensive structural changes and improvements to the nation. Fundamental reforms and modernization in education, healthcare and daily operational systems and processes have become imperative. This is the era of technology, and if used cautiously, it can significantly contribute to the nation’s progress. “Good governance and corruption-free administration” must be the core slogan.
We seek an end to instability, unrest, anarchy, poverty and corruption. We stand in solidarity with every effort made by the Nepalese people towards this goal. The declining economy, ailing industrial production, rising national debt, unemployment, weakening nationalism, national unity, social harmony, traditional religion, culture, and the growing despair and dissatisfaction among the people are our primary concerns. Alongside citizen migration, capital flight, corruption and irregularities have reached levels the country can no longer bear. In this situation, making the New Year fruitful requires the collective and united efforts of all Nepalese.
We are always vigilant and sensitive to ensuring that there is no conflict among Nepalese, no atmosphere of mutual distrust or violence, and that our countrymen do not become polarized under any pretext. We have embraced the reality that Nepal’s future lies in the unity of its people, and we believe everyone must internalize this truth. Our call is not for anyone’s personal gain, nor for any ideological or theoretical agenda, but for the sovereignty of the entire nation, the sovereignty of all its people, and the prosperous dignity of Nepal and the Nepalese. We must build a pioneering nation in our own way. Our interest and existence must be uplifted by ourselves.
The world has progressed far, but we remain trapped in the labyrinth of one ideology or another. Our thoughts must be centered on Mother Nepal, and our steps must move in that direction. Every problem canbe resolved through dialogue, consensus, coordination and collaboration.
We believe that the coming year can and must become a memorable and golden chapter in our history. May the New Year bring new hope, enthusiasm, and energy, ensuring a golden future for all Nepalese.
May Lord Pashupatinath bless us all. Jai Nepal!
