Bhutan: Parliament endorses Constitution

The Constitution of Bhutan has been endorsed by the country's parliament thus formalising the return to the people the powers that were vested in the monarchy a century ago.King Jigme Khesar Namgyel signed the first copy of the constitution, lettered in gold, on Friday. The Constitution will provide the legal ... for a democratic political system that will safeguard the security and sovereignty of Bhutan and ensure the wellbeing of the people.''This Constitution is the most profound achievement of generations of endeavour and service. As it is granted to us, we must remember that even more important than the wise and judicious use of the powers it confers, is the unconditional fulfilment of the responsibilities we must shoulder,'' Namgyel told the parliament after the historic moment.''Only in understanding our duties will the exercise of our powers be fruitful. If we can serve our nation with this knowledge and in this spirit, then an even brighter future awaits our country,'' he said.Former king Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the monk body, the royal family, government leaders, members of the international community, and representatives from all sections of Bhutanese society witnessed the occasion.Prime Minister Jigmi Thinley hoped he would be able to fulfil the wishes of the kings and the people as the first democratically elected ruler of Bhutan.Charge de Affaires of the Embassy of India T Darlong said the signing of the Constitution was a very historic occasion. ''We would like to congratulate the people of Bhutan on this occasion,'' he said.The chief justice of the country said: ''Democracy in Bhutan is truly a result of the desire, aspiration and complete commitment of the monarchy to the well-being of the people and country.The new Constitution requires the government to maximise 'Gross National Happiness' and guarantees citizens freedom of speech, thought, conscience and religion. It bars the country's monks from voting in elections and participating in politics.The final draft of the Constitution that aimed at ushering of democracy in the kingdom was ready in 2007. The drafting committee incorporated changes in some of the provisions of the constitution based on comments by people during consultation meetings held from October 2005 to May 2006.The drafting of the constitution was announced by King Jigme Singye Wangchuck in 2001 ''to create a democratic political system best suited for Bhutan''.

• Tiny gold clusters can help clean car exhaust
• New format to ensure disruption-free images on TV
• Indian-Canadians outraged by overturning of Reena Virk murder verdict
• Syrian peace proposals fired off to Israel
• Russians accuse West of war-like moves
• Michael Reagan likens Palin to his father
• Hungry fishermen cause further flooding in Bihar
• Zardari becomes president in Pakistan

Add to: | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Tag It| | |