Ex-King Breaks Silence Amid Nepal's Political Unrest

Nepal’s former king, Gyanendra Shah, has publicly expressed concern about the nation's direction. His comments follow months of political turmoil and a recent rally by his supporters. The country has been unstable since last September. Youth-led protests then forced out four-time Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. At least 76 people died in those demonstrations. An interim government under former chief justice Sushila Karki now leads Nepal. Elections are scheduled for later this year. Shah was removed from the throne in 2008. This happened after a decade-long civil war ended the monarchy. He has mostly stayed out of politics since then. His decision to speak now highlights ongoing tensions. It comes as his supporters campaign for a restored Hindu state and a more prominent role for the former king.