Nepal abolishes monarchy
Thursday, 29 May 2008 10:41
Nepal has become the world's newest republic after the government gave King Gyanendra 15 days to leave the palace yesterday.
This declaration follows the swearing-in of a constituent assembly on May 27th as a result of the elections held on April 10th, in which the Maoists gained a majority.
The new parliament voted to abolish the 240-year-old monarchy last night.
This historic moment in Nepal's history will be marked by public holidays today and Friday and there have been celebrations on the streets of Kathmandu.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) continues to warn about the volatile political situation in Nepal.
There were bomb explosions on May 27th and 28th in Kathmandu and the FCO advises travellers to avoid all large gatherings and demonstrations.
Visitors to Nepal may soon be able to see inside the royal palace as it has been reported the building will be turned into a museum.