Nepal protestors demand democracy

THOUSANDS of protesters marched through Nepal’s capital on yesterday to demand the restoration of democracy in one of the biggest shows of opposition strength since King Gyanendra seized absolute power three months ago.

In two union-organised rallies that also were intended to commemorate the May Day workers' holiday, demonstrators carried placards calling for an end to the king's direct rule.

Gyanendra on Saturday lifted a state of emergency that had given police unlimited power, but he retained direct rule.