Bhutan Constitution Published by kinley
July 18, 2008 – 9:19 pm
The Draft Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan was signed today, Friday, 18 July 2008, the 15th day of fifth month of Bhutanese Calendar. The Constitution was signed by His Majesty the King, Cabinet Ministers, Opposition Leader, National Council Chairman, National Council Candidates, Members of Parliament, and by the Chairman of the Constitution. The public citizens, senior officials, representatives of the armed forces, representatives from Non Government Organization, Lopens of the Zhung Dratshang and Royal family were invited to grace the occasion. The ceremony was held in the Kuenrey of the Tashichhodzong. Three sacred Thongdroels was also unfurled at Tashichhodzong for the benefit of public. The constitution day will be a remarkable day in the history of Bhutan.
The day was declared as government holiday.
HIS MAJESTY THE KING’S ADDRESS TO THE NATION UPON THE ADOPTION OF THE CONSTITUTION ON FRIDAY THE 18TH OF JULY 2008
On this day of destiny, in the blessed land of Pelden Drukpa we, a fortunate People and King, hereby resolve to bring into effect the root and foundation - the very source - of all law in our nation.
On such an auspicious occasion, on behalf of the people I offer gratitude to His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. During his reign His Majesty built a strong nation and secured the hopes and aspirations of the people through the process of democratization and the enlightened vision of Gross National Happiness. His Majesty has also laid a clear path for our future through this Constitution.
The significance of His Majesty’s unique achievements as leader has transcended the experiences of our country and been acknowledged by the world. In our own country, many generations into the future, the Constitution will continue to inspire our people as it stands testimony to a selfless and extraordinary leadership.
This Constitution is the most profound achievement of generations of endeavor and service. As it is granted to us today, we must remember that even more important than the wise and judicious use of the powers it confers, is the unconditional fulfillment of the responsibilities we must shoulder. 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.
It is my fervent prayer that through this Constitution we will, with our body, speech and mind work with complete commitment and conviction as we strengthen the sovereignty and security of Bhutan; secure the blessings of liberty; ensure justice and peace and enhance the unity and happiness of all Bhutanese, now and always.
Lastly, this Constitution was placed before the people of the twenty dzongkhags by the King. Each word has earned its sacred place with the blessings of every citizen in our nation. This is the People’s Constitution.
And today, through this, my Hand and Seal, I affix on to the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan, the hopes and prayers of my People.
[Courtesy: Kuensel]
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