Kathmandu, Feb. 19 -- On the eve of democracy day, former king Gyanendra Shah on Wednesday called for postponement of the March 5 parliamentary election, warning that holding the polls amid ongoing nationwide dissatisfaction could deepen political instability and spark further conflict.

Shah was removed by parliamentary decision in July 2008, ending the centuries-old monarchy in Nepal. Yet ongoing political instability, frequent government changes, and public dissatisfaction have kept him in the public eye and made his statements politically significant.

In a video message, Shah said the election is being pushed forward despite widespread disagreement and protests. He said holding polls against public sentiment would not produce a lasti...