Nepal is due to become a republic on May 28. As the assembly was being sworn in on May 27, a bomb exploded in the capital, injuring two people.

The assembly’s ceremony saw 575 men and women being sworn in, many in traditional clothing. The ceremony was performed by an older member of the newly-elected body.

Nepal stands on the brink of huge change and the assembly has been given the initial task of rubber-stamping the abolition of the monarchy.

Reports said King Gyanendra and Queen Komal were seen driving out of the royal palace on the afternoon of May 27, but it was not clear where they were going or for how long they would be gone.