Monarchy And Economy
Journalist Surya Thapa discusses the issue of economic relevancy of monarchy
By A CORRESPONDENT
As the elections for Constituent Assembly approaches, the debate over future of monarchy intensifies. The leaders, workers and intellectuals ideologically affiliated to eight political parties have been pursuing their agenda saying that there is no utility of monarchy in Nepal .
In a series of debates over monarchy or republic, many books have already been released. As monarchists are completely denied the right to express their views, the books written by republicans particularly followers of communists are dominating the market.
Although it is suppressed and somehow neutralized because of King Gyranendra's personal actions and activities, there is still a powerful opinion in favor of monarchy. At a time when there is physical threat to those who declare themselves a monarchist, recently published opinion poll conducted by Interdisciplinary Analysts showed that 38 percent respondents want the monarchy because it is a part of their tradition
Of course, individual monarchs have their own right and wrong doings but the institution of monarchy has a long history in Nepal. From Kirat to Lichhavi, Thakuri and Malla to now Shah, all dynasties have contributed to bring stability in Nepal protecting Nepal 's own identity. In a country where the modern institutions are yet to be established, the ethos of monarchy have long been associated with Nepal and is difficult to erase from the mind of people.
In a series of drives for republic, various articles and books are being published in Nepal showing how monarchy has exploited Nepal in terms of politics as well as economy. Surya Thapa, editor of Buddhabar, a weekly tabloid ideologically affiliated to CPN-UML, has published his third book on monarchy. This is about the economy of monarchy and its utility.
The book is first of its kinds, which produces all properties enjoyed by monarch, kings and royal family members. It says the properties accumulated by Royal family members now exceed billions of rupees. Based on official documents, this book is very interesting to read.
Well researched, the book also reveals many important things including the efforts made by King Gyanendra to transfer the property owned by his two brothers including the family members of late King Birendra.
As a republican himself, one cannot except the pro-monarchical stand from author Surya Thapa. Like in his previous two books, Thapa argues that monarchy is a burden to Nepal in terms of economy. According to Thapa, monarchs in Nepal have accumulated property worth billions of rupees by controlling industries, among others. Kings of Nepal also occupy public places including forest and religious shrines.
Although monarchy is a feudal institution and it might have exploited economically, no one can deny its role in national integration as well as bringing political stability in a country like Nepal with multi-ethnic and multi-cultural setting.
In many countries of the world, abolition of monarchy resulted in prolonged anarchy and instability. In some countries, monarchs were replaced by more tyrannical and authoritarian rulers. Downfall of Afghanistan began after overthrow of King Jahir Shaha. Similarly, abolition of monarchy in Cambodia resulted in upsurge of Pol Pot regime. In Iran , religious Mullahs replaced moderate monarchy. There are many cases where elected presidents, too, accumulated billion of dollars worth of properties.
Compared with the elected president, monarchy has one advantage as it represents the institution with a long history and tradition. In many incidents in South Asia , many small nations have lost their identity after removal of monarchy. The removal of monarchy has also resulted in prolonged political instability. Afghanistan is a good example where deposed King was summoned to legitimize new republican constitution.
In Cambodia , the communist ruler Hun Sen - who overthrew monarch - restored it hoping to bring stability in the country.
Thapa's book gives a very good insight about how much properties monarch and Royal family members hold in this country. He also shows how much budget was increased following the Royal take over of February 1, 2005 It is an interesting read.
Rajtantrako Artharajniti (Monarchy's Politics of Economy)
By: Surya Thapa
Published by: Pairavi Book House, Putali Sadak, Kathmandu, Telephone 4430823
Price: Rs. 250.00 and Rs. 1000.00 for hard copy
Pages: 278
