- Dr. Vidhu Prakash Kayastha. Nepal’s path to democracy has been deeply shaped by both sacrifices and betrayals. From the fall of the autocratic Panchayat system in 1990 to the continuing struggles of 2025, the country has witnessed the resilience of its people and the actions of its leaders—many of whom, despite coming to power in the name of democracy, have betrayed the very ideals they promised to uphold.
The Sacrifices for Democracy
The most pivotal moment in Nepal’s democratic history occurred in 1990, with the first Jana Andolan (People’s Movement), when millions of Nepali citizens revolted against King Birendra’s autocratic Panchayat regime. The movement demanded the establishment of a multi-party democracy and greater civil liberties. It was a struggle marked by the sacrifice of thousands of lives, particularly from the youth, who endured violence, repression, and imprisonment.
The hopes for a more democratic future were further tested in the years that followed. The Maoist insurgency from 1996 to 2006, which sought to end the feudal political system, cost thousands of lives—primarily in rural areas—while polarizing the nation. Despite the enormous toll, Nepal’s commitment to democracy remained steadfast.
The second Jana Andolan in 2006 culminated in the abolition of the monarchy, and Nepal was declared a federal democratic republic. The sacrifices of ordinary Nepali citizens during both movements, which included the loss of lives and livelihoods, became a cornerstone of the nation’s democratic future.
The Betrayal of Democratic Ideals
Though the 1990 revolution and the subsequent movements inspired hopes for lasting democracy, the actions of many political leaders following these events cast shadows of betrayal.
After the 2008 declaration of the republic, political leaders failed to unite to build a robust democratic framework. Instead, they became embroiled in prolonged power struggles and infighting. The delay in writing the constitution and the failure to establish stable governance led to growing disillusionment among the people. Rather than the envisioned period of justice, equality, and progress, the political elite’s behavior represented inefficiency, corruption, and failure to meet the democratic promises they had made.
In 2015, when the new constitution was finally promulgated, it was hailed as a historic achievement but quickly became a symbol of betrayal. The constitution, while a step toward a federal democratic republic, perpetuated systemic exclusion, particularly against marginalized groups such as the Madhesis, Indigenous people, and Dalits. The Madhesi population, who share cultural, social, and historical ties with India, was denied equal representation and inclusion in the new federal structure, despite their long-standing demands for political rights. Indigenous communities, who had fought for recognition and autonomy, were similarly sidelined. The constitution did not address their concerns for proportional representation, language rights, and land rights, leaving them feeling disenfranchised. Dalits, who have long suffered from caste-based discrimination, were also excluded from key positions and policymaking processes, perpetuating their marginalization.
The violent protests that erupted in the southern Terai region, led by the Madhesi and other excluded groups, were met with violent repression from the state, further alienating these communities. For many, the new constitution became a symbol not of the hope for equality and justice envisioned during the Jana Andolan, but of a deep betrayal by the very leaders who had once promised to create an inclusive and democratic Nepal. The systemic exclusion of these groups continued to reinforce the inequality and division within the country, undermining the core democratic values of representation, justice, and fairness.
Traitors to Democracy
Over the decades, several leaders, initially seen as champions of the democratic struggle, have been labeled “traitors.” One of the most significant figures in this regard is King Gyanendra, the last monarch of Nepal. In 2005, after the royal coup, Gyanendra dissolved the elected government, imposed direct rule, and sought to roll back the democratic advancements made since the 1990 People’s Movement. His actions incited widespread protests that ultimately led to the end of the monarchy in 2008.
Political figures who were initially celebrated for their roles in ending the Panchayat system, such as Girija Prasad Koirala and the leaders of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) (CPN-UML), became embroiled in corrupt practices and power struggles. Their failure to address pressing issues—like economic inequality, inclusive governance, and federalism—alienated the public, further eroding trust in democratic institutions.
The Continued Struggles of Democracy in 2025
As Nepal moves toward 2025, its democratic journey remains fraught with challenges. While there have been significant electoral victories, such as the 2017 local, provincial, and federal elections, the reality is far from stable. Corruption, political fragmentation, and a lack of accountability continue to plague the nation.
The failure of political elites to foster national unity and bring about meaningful reform has left many citizens feeling alienated from the political process. The promises made during the Jana Andolan—such as social justice, equality, and economic prosperity—remain unfulfilled for large segments of the population. Despite the sacrifices of past movements, citizens continue to suffer from decisions made by an entrenched political elite who are more focused on maintaining power than on serving the people’s needs.
The specter of betrayal lingers. Whether it comes from political leaders turning their backs on their constituents or from foreign influences undermining Nepal’s sovereignty, the threat of backsliding into autocracy or authoritarian rule remains ever-present.
Conclusion
Nepal’s journey toward democracy has been marred by the actions of leaders who have, time and again, betrayed the democratic aspirations of the people. From the sacrifices of the Jana Andolan to the shortcomings of post-2008 governance, the nation has endured immense political turbulence. As Nepal approaches 2025, its future as a true democracy hinges on the ability of its leaders to honor past sacrifices, restore unity, and uphold the principles of justice, equality, and accountability that so many have fought for. The resilience of the Nepali people, however, remains strong, and they continue to demand the democracy they were promised. For Nepal to thrive, it will require leaders who are committed to serving the people and a nation that has long awaited the fulfillment of its democratic ideals.
Dr. Vidhu Prakash Kayastha
