KATHMANDU: Actress Manisha Koirala has publicly expressed support for the restoration of the monarchy, saying a constitutional monarchy is essential for safeguarding Nepal’s sovereignty and national identity.

Koirala made the remarks at a program organized by Youth Shakti Nepal, which is collecting signatures in support of restoring the monarchy. She also signed the campaign in favor of the royal institution.

Addressing the event, Koirala said she had come to believe in the need for a constitutional monarchy through the ideas of Nepali Congress leader B.P. Koirala, whom she referred to as B.P. Ba.
She said B.P. Koirala initially had revolutionary and socialist leanings, but later concluded that the monarchy was necessary for preserving the country. Referring to his policy of national reconciliation, she said he viewed the monarchy and democracy as complementary rather than contradictory.

Koirala also argued that the aspirations Nepalis held after the establishment of multiparty democracy and later the republic had not been fulfilled.
She said sidelining national institutions and adopting ideas disconnected from Nepal’s own historical and geographical realities had weakened the country.

According to her, removing the institution whose lineage contributed to the creation of modern Nepal could weaken nationalism, which she described as particularly dangerous for a country with Nepal’s geopolitical situation.

She concluded by saying that if Nepal is to remain independent, sovereign and enduring, the monarchy is indispensable.