| diwask |
Posted
on 02-Jun-01 04:13 AM
from Nepali Times
Dipendra is King, Raj Parishad appoints Prince Gyanendra Regeant
A short announcement by the chairman of the Royal Privy Council, Keshar Jung Rayamajhi over Radio Nepal and Nepal Television was the first time that the shocked citizens of Nepal heard that their King and Queen were dead—almost 17 hours after a massacre in the royal palace. At least seven other members of the Royal Family were also killed or wounded.
In a half-choking voice, Rayamajhi, read from a prepared text: “We announce death of His Majesty King Birendra Bir Bickram Shah Dev on the 19 of Jestha 2058 at 21:15 in the evening. According to the 2046 Constitution of Nepal and the laws of succession and according to the grand traditions we declare that His Majesty’s eldest son, Crown Prince Dipendra Bir Bickram Shah Dev will be the King of Nepal as of 6 o’clock in the evening 20 Jestha 2058.”
It continued: “But since His Majesty King Dipendra Bir Bickram Shah Dev is physically not able to take care of the affairs of state, and since both Queen Aishwarya and Prince Nirajan have also died, the Raj Parishad has decided that Prince Gyanendra Bir Bickram Shah Dev shall be appointed Regeant.”
As the announcement was made preparations were being made at the Hanuman Dhoka Palace for the official functions marking the transition. The cabinet of Prime Minister Girija Koirala was locked in a meeting soon after the announcement.
There were demonstrations by a group called “Rastriyabadi Milan Kendra” of about 400 protestors in the streets around Jamal, Kamaladi, and Shahid Gate which stoned police and some shops. The demonstrators shouted slogans in support of the monarchy, denounced a “conspiracy” and a “grand design”. Police are trying bring the demonstrations under control.
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