Kathmandu  - A prominent monarchist said Monday that embattled King Gyanendra would not go into exile even if Nepal is declared a republic and its more than
240-year-old monarchy ended.

The comments by Kamal Thapa, a politician considered close to the king, came weeks before the newly elected constituent assembly, which is to draft a new constitution, was expected to meet to ratify last year's decision of the interim parliament to abolish the monarchy.

"The king has made it very clear that he will not leave the country and go into exile under any circumstances," Thapa told reporters in Kathmandu.

Thapa also cautioned against abolishing the monarchy, predicting it would plunge the Himalayan country into crisis.

"I have met top Maoist leader Prachanda and told him not to take a decision on the monarchy before a new constitution is drafted," Thapa said. "Such a move would push the country into further trouble."

On Monday, Gyanendra made a rare public appearance, attending a family-related religious ceremony in a temple just outside Kathmandu.

It was the first time Gyanendra had appeared in public since the constituent assembly election last month.

The religious ceremony, which dates back to the 18th century, was also attended by Queen Komal and involved the sacrifice of several animals, including chickens, sheep and a water buffalo.

About 30 supporters cheered the king amid tight security with several plain-clothed officers guarding him and the temple.

The king did not make any comments to the public or the press.

Gyanendra ascended the throne under bizarre circumstances in June 2001 after the entire family of his brother, king Birendra, was killed in a palace shootout blamed on the crown prince.

Gyanendra seized absolute power in February 2005 after successive government failed to conduct elections and promised a return to democracy within three years.

However, his government fell in a series of popular protests a year later.

Since then, he has been stripped of all powers. His portrait on bank notes and references to him in government works have been removed.

The main political parties have pledged to officially end the monarchy and make Nepal a republic at the first meeting of the constituent assembly. (dpa)