Nepal PM Oli challenges former King to contest in polls
Oli threw the challenge, — his first after the former King's appeal to the people to support him to navigate the country out of its current circumstances on February 18 — amidst a palpable nervousness in the ruling coalition.
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Oli’s response so late comes after pro-monarchy rallies are taking place in different parts of the country, with participation of not only the pro-monarchy political forces but also the youth and students.
Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli today challenged former King Gyanendra Shah to launch a political party and win the election if securing state power is his motto.
Oli threw the challenge, — his first after the former King’s appeal to the people to support him to navigate the country out of its current circumstances on February 18 — amidst a palpable nervousness in the ruling coalition. “The constitution does not recognise the Monarchy, and if he is keen to get into power, he should contest election… the monarchy was thrown by the people long ago, and getting somebody back on the throne is impossible.”
Oli’s response so late comes after pro-monarchy rallies are taking place in different parts of the country, with participation of not only the pro-monarchy political forces but also the youth and students.
“We have been trying to get all the pro-republic forces including the (CPN) Maoists-Centre together to defeat the promonarchial forces,” a source in the central Cabinet told The Indian Express.
However, the Maoists led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda are busy agitating against Oli and his government, mainly exposing the government’s “corrupt deeds and deals.”
Sources said the government is also considering alternative ways to deal with the former king, including restraining his movements and activities or putting him under House arrest after his return from Pokhara to Kathmandu on Sunday.
Sources said other alternatives being considered include imposing prohibitory orders around the Airport where pro-monarchy groups have announced to gather to welcome him.
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