Kathmandu, Feb 18: Former King Gyanendra Shah has called on the people to support him in protecting the nation, maintaining national unity, and ensuring the country’s prosperity and development.
Issuing a message on the occasion of Democracy Day, the former king Shah expressed his willingness to make further sacrifices for Nepal’s progress.
He stated, “The time has come to save the nation, uphold national unity, and work for the country’s prosperity and development. I call upon all Nepalis to stand with me in this mission.”
Full Text
Dear Nepali brothers and sisters,
On the auspicious occasion of Falgun 7, the day marking the dawn of democracy in Nepal, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all Nepalis. I fondly remember my grandfather and father, Rashtrapita (Father of the Nation) King Tribhuvan, who played a vital role in the establishment of democracy in Nepal. History is a witness that the people and the monarchy worked together to strengthen democracy. I also express my deep respect to the martyrs and all those who contributed to democracy.
Democracy is supposed to be the best system of governance in today’s world. It should be a universally accepted ideal, where the state operates according to the will, thoughts, and votes of the people. It must ensure the rights, dignity, and progress of every group, class, and individual. There should be no doubt about this.
However, democracy should not be understood solely through conflicts, disputes, or opposition. We must perceive it as a people-friendly and welfare-oriented system. Mere beautiful words and attractive ideals do not make democracy meaningful; it requires service-minded actions and true democratic conduct. Every citizen’s identity must be recognized, and their existence must be safeguarded. A democracy built on exclusion, arrogance, self-interest, and stubbornness cannot thrive.
Today, our nation’s history is being erased, and Nepal’s very existence is under threat. Our capable young population is leaving the country in large numbers, their sweat benefiting foreign lands instead of our own soil. Nepalis are born with massive debt burdens, our industries and businesses are collapsing, and even our educational institutions are struggling. The narrative that “nothing can be achieved in Nepal” has taken root in the minds of skilled and knowledgeable citizens. This is not how democracy should be.
Democracy should be a system of hope and trust, one that uplifts people’s lives and ensures a brighter future for all. But for the past three decades, this has not been the case. The system that was meant to bring happiness and prosperity has failed to do so. It is painful that those who claimed to change the system have been unable to improve the situation.
Nepal is a beautiful nation, nurtured by our patriotic ancestors. We do not wish for any crisis to befall our country. That is why we have always acted with patience and sacrifice, even relinquishing our position and privileges for the well-being of the people. True sacrifice does not diminish one’s stature, nor should it be mistaken for weakness. Our aspiration has always been to unite and include everyone. Destroying history and disrespecting our identity will not lead us forward. We must move ahead by correcting past mistakes and aligning with our nature and culture.
My commitment and dedication to the nation remain unwavering. For the protection of the country, discipline and honest efforts from all are necessary. We have already made sacrifices to resolve national issues in the past, and we are ready to sacrifice even more for Nepal’s progress. Now is the time to safeguard the nation, uphold national unity, and strive for prosperity.
I urge all Nepalis to stand with me in this mission to save our beloved country.
May Lord Pashupatinath bless us all.
Jai Nepal!
February 18, 2025
