Kathmandu, April 9:

King Gyanendra has called upon all eligible voters to exercise their democratic right in a free and fair manner.

Issuing a statement on the eve of the polls that will decide the fate of monarchy, the king said, “It has always been our desire to ensure that under no circumstance is the nation’s existence, independence and integrity compromised and to build a prosperous and peaceful

nation through a democratic polity in keeping with the verdict of the sovereign

people.”

He also stressed the need to maintain harmony and unity during the Constituent Assembly polls.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Krishna Prasad Sitaula expressed surprise over the king’s appeal to the people to exercise their democratic rights in a free and fair manner. Sitaula was speaking at a press conference at the Home Ministry.

“I am surprised to know that the king has issued a statement,” he said when asked what is the government’s take on the king’s statement.