Full Name: Pushpa Kamal Dahal
Popular Name: Prachanda
Date of Birth: December 11, 1954
Place of Birth: Dhikurpokhari, Kaski, Nepal
Political Party: CPN (Maoist Centre)
Spouse: Sita Dahal (deceased)
Children: Renu Dahal (current Mayor of Bharatpur) and others
Early Life & Education:
Prachanda was born in a rural village in Kaski District but later moved to Chitwan. He studied agriculture science and worked as a teacher before getting involved in politics.
Political Career:
Joined the Communist movement in the 1970s.
Became General Secretary of the Communist Party of Nepal (Mashal) in 1989.
Led the Maoist insurgency (People’s War) from 1996 to 2006, demanding the abolition of the monarchy.
Signed the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2006, ending the civil war.
Became the first Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal in 2008 but resigned in 2009.
Served three times as Nepal’s Prime Minister (2008–2009, 2016–2017, and since 2022).
Played a key role in Nepal’s transition from a monarchy to a republic.
Legacy & Influence:
Prachanda is a controversial yet influential figure in Nepal’s history, known for leading the Maoist rebellion and later integrating into mainstream politics. His leadership continues to shape Nepal’s governance and policies.
On March 11, 2025, in response to a significant pro-monarchy rally in Kathmandu, former Prime Minister and CPN (Maoist Centre) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, commonly known as Prachanda, addressed the House of Representatives. He warned pro-monarchy forces against challenging Nepal's republican setup, cautioning that any attempts to reinstate the monarchy could lead to a harsh revolution.
Prachanda's speech emphasized the importance of upholding the democratic framework established after the abolition of the monarchy in 2008. He reaffirmed his commitment to the republic and cautioned against regressive movements that threaten the nation's democratic achievements.
On March 9, 2025, former King Gyanendra Shah returned to Kathmandu, greeted by over 10,000 supporters advocating for the restoration of the monarchy and the reestablishment of Hinduism as the state religion. Demonstrators blocked the main entrance to Tribhuvan International Airport, prompting passengers to walk, but the protest remained nonviolent.
The monarchy was abolished in 2008 following massive protests against Gyanendra's authoritarian rule, leading to a republic that many Nepalis feel has failed to bring stability, reduce corruption, and improve the economy. Rally participants, including former anti-monarchy protesters, expressed disillusionment with the current political system and voiced support for the king's return.
Despite the growing support, Gyanendra, who has remained silent on the calls for monarchy restoration, faces slim chances of an immediate return to power. His history includes seizing absolute power in 2005, disbanding the government, and ruling with military force after his ascension to the throne in 2002.
These developments underscore the ongoing political tensions in Nepal between republican and pro-monarchy factions.
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