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November 2004
His Majesty presents the draft Constitution to the lhengye zhungtsho
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His Majesty presents the draft Constitution to the lhengye zhungtsho
November 2004
His Majesty the King said ...
Initiating yet another significant stride forward in the historical political re- forms that Bhutan has witnessed in recent years, His Majesty the King handed over the draft Constitution of the kingdom of Bhutan to the members of the lhengye zhungtsho on November 22, 2004 at the Cabinet hall in Tashichhodzong.
His Majesty explained that the draft Constitution was being presented to the lhengye zhungtsho so that the members could deliberate over it in detail and express their views and comments.

The Constitution, comprising 34 articles, would then be distributed among the people of the 20 dzongkhags for public discussion.

His Majesty said that, although the draft had been ready, the process had been delayed because of the security situation that Bhutan had faced until recently. His Majesty informed the members of the lhengye zhungtsho that the draft Constitution would be distributed to the public early next year. The people of Bhutan would study the contents of the draft, assess its contents, and finally enact a Constitution that would ensure the future well being of the nation.
His Majesty reminded the members of the lhengye zhungtsho that the Constitutions of many countries had been closely studied, not to be duplicated, but to draw on their strengths and to adopt elements that were relevant and beneficial for Bhutan. Even with written Constitutions many countries had faced problems, and there were examples of parliamentary democracies that did not work, so it was important for Bhutan to learn from their experiences.
It was important for Bhutan to draft a Constitution that was functional and unique to the needs of the people and the country. The Constitution should lay a strong foundation for good governance and a political system that was best suited for Bhutan.
"The Constitution must ensure the well being of the country, serve the needs of the people, and fulfill their aspirations," said His Majesty. "Bhutan is extremely fortunate today because we have the time and the opportunity to achieve this cherished goal."
The prime minister, Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba, said that the government was totally confident that His Majesty the King, in his wisdom, would provide for Bhutan a Constitution that would best serve the interests of the people and the nation. His Majesty had taken the initiative to lay down the foundation for historic political reform and the Constitution represented the ultimate step in the devolution of power.

The prime minister said that the challenge now was for the people, having been given the authority and responsibility, to follow the Constitution in letter and spirit. The biggest challenge, he added, was the interim period when the people were not fully educated and prepared. Therefore, as His Majesty had often advised, it was important for the people to elect the right leaders who would be able to fulfill the noble aspirations of His Majesty the King.

His Majesty the King expressed his appreciation and Tashi Delek to the Chief Justice, the Speaker, representatives of the clergy, the Royal Advisory Councillors, the people's representatives from the 20 dzongkhags, and the government representatives who had contributed their best efforts in drawing up the first draft of the Constitution..

This article was contributet by Kinley Dorji, Editor-in-Chief, Kuensel, Bhutan's national newspaper, 2004

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