Role of Political Parties in the Democratic Movement of 2006 in Nepal

The 2006 democratic movement in Nepal marked a pivotal shift in the nation's political landscape, culminating in the dissolution of monarchical rule and the establishment of a federal democratic republic.Political parties played a central role in organizing, mobilizing, and sustaining this movement through strategic alliances and grassroots engagement.This article explores the roles played by key political parties during the 2006 movement, drawing upon qualitative research based on in-depth interviews with academicians, activists, and civil society members.The analysis situates these findings within the broader context of Nepal's democratic history and the theoretical frameworks of democratic transition and political mobilization.It argues that while public pressure was decisive, the coordinated actions and ideological shifts within mainstream political parties were essential in achieving systemic change.The study contributes to understanding how party politics interface with popular movements in transitional democracies.