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| In a historic first, kabney and dhar were awarded from the Throne |
“Gups are important, as they deal with people every day, and know the needs of the people well,” His Majesty said, adding that the present gups being awarded the kabney and dhar from the throne for the first time was a symbol of independence and importance of local government.
His Majesty reminded the gups that, as they carry out their duties, they should remember that they are not there to seek status, wealth or fame. “Your primary goal is to serve the people and, as citizens of a spiritual nation, be compassionate and fulfil the aspirations of the people with the highest standards of integrity,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty also said the gups are important to keep the community closely knit, put forward the nation’s security as a priority and preserve culture.
Democracy, His Majesty said, was a carefully planned process by the fourth Druk Gyalpo, with the establishment of dzongkhag yargay tshogdus way back in 1980, and gewog yargay tshogchungs in 1990.
Decentralisation and empowerment of the grassroots has been a constant process, culminating in the transfer of powers from the Throne to the people under democracy. In the exercise of these powers, local governments are invaluable to the people, His Majesty said.
His Majesty congratulated the representatives of the gewogs of 20 dzongkhags, and thanked them for having come forward to serve their communities. His Majesty also said he was grateful to the Election Commission of Bhutan, all civil servants, teachers and armed forces, and the dratshang. “With your hard work and prayers, we have conducted the historic first local government elections under democracy.”
His Majesty also expressed his appreciation to people, who had left all their important work aside and come forward to participate in the election.
Thanking all 2,185 participants, who took part in the recent election, His Majesty said winning is not important but participation is. “Those, who are capable and desirous of serving their country and people, should come forward and stand for elections. Those, whom the people choose, must then serve without fear or favour,” His Majesty said.
The gups, led by the Yangbi lopen, offered Tashi Moenlam to His Majesty.
Gups from 15 gewogs were missing yesterday. Three gewogs, Goenshari in Punakha, Bjacho gewog in Chukha and Gongdue gewog in Mongar are without gup candidates. Talo gewog in Punakha could not elect their representative after the result ended in a draw, and 11 gup elects have ongoing court cases related to the election.
By Tashi Dema
http://www.kuenselonline.com/2010/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=20099
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