KATHMANDU: Former King Gyanendra Shah has voiced deep dissatisfaction with the current state of the country, calling for national unity and urging all citizens to support him in safeguarding the nation’s future.

In a video address released on the eve of Democracy Day, he appealed to the people, emphasizing that his sacrifices were made for the nation’s benefit and should not be seen as a sign of weakness.

“We acted out of generosity for the nation’s good. We sacrificed our positions and comforts for the people. Sacrifice does not diminish anyone’s stature, and no one should perceive it as a weakness,” stated the former king.

He reflected on the history of the king and people working together to strengthen democracy, expressing high regard for those who have fought and sacrificed for the cause, both known and unknown martyrs.

He emphasized that democracy should be a system that is beloved by everyone—one that upholds the rights of all classes, groups, and individuals, while advancing the nation’s progress.

“Democracy should not be reduced to mere debate, conflict, opposition, and resistance,” he said. “It must be a socially friendly and people-centric system. Democracy must be practiced in both word and deed, protecting everyone’s identity and existence.”

The former king also lamented the current state of the nation, noting the erosion of Nepal’s history and the destruction of its existence.

He highlighted the exodus of Nepal’s skilled human resources, the growing debt burden, and the collapse of industries and education systems.

“The aspirations of the citizens who leave, seeking better opportunities elsewhere, reflect the failure of the current system. This does not make democracy beautiful,” he said.

He called for democracy to be a system that inspires hope and trust among the people.

“For the past three decades, the democratic system we have chosen has failed to bring smiles to the faces of the common people. Those who claim that the system has changed have not been able to improve the situation.”

The former king reiterated his commitment to the nation and its people, stating that sacrifices made in the past were for the country’s prosperity, and he remains ready to make further sacrifices.

“We are at a critical point,” he said. “If we wish to save our nation and maintain national unity, I call on all countrymen to support us in the quest for Nepal’s prosperity and progress.”