Kathmandu, Jan 10 (NationPress) The former monarch of Nepal, Gyanendra Shah, voiced strong criticism on Saturday against the nation's political leaders for implementing a foreign policy that he deemed increasingly imbalanced, which he believes is jeopardizing the country's national interests.

In a nationwide address leading up to the 304th anniversary of modern Nepal's founder, Prithvi Narayan Shah, who is also his ancestor, and the upcoming National Unity Day, Shah pointed out that the leadership's inability to grasp the nation's delicate situation and the evolving geopolitical environment has placed Nepal in jeopardy of losing the trust of its allies.

“In this era of a growing imbalanced foreign policy that is harming our national interests, the wisdom of Prithvi Narayan Shah and his insightful perspectives have become even more crucial,” he stated in a video message. However, he refrained from detailing how the country adopted such a skewed foreign policy.

Shah emphasized that Nepal must seek a shield of peace for its protection, contrasting it with many nations that pursue various forms of security measures. He did not, however, specify what this “shield of peace” entails.

His message also reflected concern over the rising frustration among the youth and their escalating outmigration, a trend he associated with growing discontent among young people.

“The ongoing outmigration of Nepal’s skilled workforce has already indicated a grim outlook for the country’s future. We are now witnessing the exodus of capital, entrepreneurs, and investors,” he remarked. “This trend, if not swiftly addressed, could lead the nation to the edge of collapse.”

While he did not specifically reference the recent Gen-Z movement, the former King noted the increasing rebellious spirit among the younger demographic. The Gen-Z movement, which occurred in early September of the previous year, resulted in the dissolution of the coalition government led by former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, paving the way for the current administration under Sushila Karki.

“When the desires, needs, and aspirations of the younger generation are overlooked, discontent is inevitable, potentially leading to rebellion—a reality that leadership must recognize,” he commented. “The ongoing tendency to exploit the youth without genuinely understanding their requirements has fostered frustration, leading to significant losses of life and property throughout the nation.”

During the Gen-Z protests, approximately 77 individuals lost their lives, with damages to government and private properties exceeding NPR 84 billion according to official estimates.

Shah also reminisced about his departure from the royal palace nearly two decades ago. He mentioned that he had returned the “royal crown and sceptre”—the trust of the people—back to the citizens for their stewardship, stepping back from state affairs as per the wishes of the political entities that assumed power with promises of peace, economic growth, and stability.

“Even after almost twenty years since we vacated the Narayanhiti Royal Palace, the unending crises facing the nation continue to trouble us,” he stated. “In the past, there was concern that the nation was not being developed; now, there is despair that the nation itself might not survive.”