Tuesday, December 25, 2018

What is the take of Royal National Day Address?

To each his or her own seems to aptly describe the conclusion drawn by various agencies and even individuals. Some have taken the speech as praising the political parties and reprimanding the civil service. Thus quite a few have capitalized the occassion to hype their prejudices against the civil servants in social media.  Others are dumb founded by the ratio of 1 public servant to every 13 Bhutanese citizens.  Public servant is a wider term. Whereas,  civil servants are those under Royal Civil Service Commission.

I would say we need not be dumb founded with statistic. The reality is much different. For example not every public servant is directly in attendance to immediate needs of 13 Bhutanese. The area of service is far wider including past, present and future of Tsawa Sum not just 680,000 Bhutanese citizens which form one pillar of the three Tsawa Sum. 

It seems even the Prime Minister and the RCSC Chairman have different takes about the implication of Royal thoughts about the civil servants ( reference an article in the The Bhutanese Newspaper ). One takes it as civil servants needing improvements and therefore changes in civil service organisation. The other takes it as royal trust and confidence in the civil service and therefore the impetus to endeavour harder. I respect both their views because the two are central figures in governance and HM was talking about governance. Also their official positions and proximity to " Gokha " would place them at an advantage over others in interpreting the implication of the royal address.

My own humble take of the royal message is very positive for Royal Civil Service Commission and the civil servants. His Majesty the King have praised the dedication and service of civil servants in the past. And at this jucture, royal faith is renewed in the trust and confidence upon the civil service organisation and its role highlighted.

I have read together not just the words but
the inter- related essence of His Majesty acknowledging the manifestos and goals of Political Parties as ways of nation building  and at the same time highlighting the vital role of civil servants in the service of shaping the nation. Therefore, the national day royal address could also be conveying to political parties that in their pursuit to accomplish respective party goals and ambitions, the elected political party in governance should not make light of the national role and responsibility entrusted to civil servants. By the same token, the civil servants are reminded to not astray from their duty to Tsawa Sum. His Majesty commanded that in 10-15 years down the line if the national interests are found to have been undermind, it will be civil servants who will be held accountable not the gone bye successive governments of elected political parties.

To me the message is clear. The civil service is trusted to serve the Tsawa  Sum above political party goals. Perhaps the elected government must provide room for civil service to function to serve the Tsawa Sum. It would be healthy if elected Political Party formed governments refrained from overhauling civil service organisation to suit their political convenience. PDP Cabinet had  vanquished 3 government secretaries to cower down the line the whole of civil service heirachy. And ill effects will continue to haunt the Tsawa Sum even after PDP government term is long over.  

The principle of democracy is ofcourse a guiding light of governance. However, Bhutan lies in a very sensitive position and age. Our hearalded democracy is getting younger in terms of experience of elected leaders. Thus the danger from a ruling political party of turning civil service to party machinery apparatus and cajoling the Bhutanese media to become party propaganda outlets cannot be under estimated. When fresh leaders are hard pressed in managing affairs through democratic process, it is tempting to bull doze and dismantle established structures and adopt dictatorial trends.



Saturday, December 22, 2018

The legal aspect of BEO Agreement with Youths sent to Japan.

It is said that there are two Agreements according to information shared in fb on this much debated and hellish " Learn and Earn programme " sold by BEO in collusion with officials from Labour Ministry.

Usually Agreements are valid if signed by both Parties and witnessed and the terms do not contradict prevailing laws in force. All Agreements must have legal stamps in Bhutan to be considered legally binding. 

However, it is possible to nullify the 2nd Agreement executed between BEO and youths on the basis of it being executed  under " duress " if the same was indeed presented unexpectedly by BEO and compelled to be hurriedly executed by the youths on the day the youths were boarding the flight to Japan under the Learn and Earn Programne.

Based on the 1st Agreement executed between BEO and youths, the youths had taken loans and paid to BEO for Learn and Earn Programme promoted by BEO. In doing so, the youths had also foreclosed all other avenues for seeking different  job opportunities. All their relatives and friends were aware that the youths got employment opportunity in Japan  through BEO. Thus the youths were already fully committed to go to Japan having terminated all ties of job opportunities and other livelihood possibilities in Bhutan their home country.

These youths would have bid farewell to all including near and dear ones by the time it was the day to board the flight to Japan. Then BEO presents the departing youths with a 2nd Agreement. Unless it was agreed to and signed, the youths cannot take the flight to Japan. Such an ultimatum of no choice can be likened to a bride being presented with a fresh demand half way through the marriage ceremony. There just isn't the fraction of time and chance to look over the terms. One is already chained to consenting position. The storm hits the ship when one is already aboard the ship. To jump overboard is kind of sucide. Only under BEO terms, to cling onto the BEO ship turned out to be a course of gradual sucide.

Thus whatever the financial burden that youths have to bear and whatever profits BEO derived under the terms of the  1st Agreement, such would be legally binding as unholy as it so apoears. But the terms of 2nd Agreement cannot be binding upon the youths as the environmental circunstances governing the execution of the Agreement qualifies the  Agreenent executed under extreme " duress ". Inatead the BEO Partners and colkuders should be charged  for committing a crime of financial and moral rape in forcing such grievous terms upon their caged victims. 
 

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Blessings come in abundance when the heart, mind and spirit meets.

This surprising snowfall today seems to be the " Jinlap "  of the happiness and blessings shared with the people by the Lung Ku Chhoe Sum of the Kingdom yesterday at Samtse.

For the first time His Majesty the King and His Majesty Drukgyel Zhipa and His Holiness Je Khenpo graced together in united spirit, heart and mind the National Day Flag Raising Ceremony and Offering of Marchhang to Palden Drukpai ChhoeChhangs. True essence of the Ku Sung Thuk Mendril offering and true form of Pel Luk Nyi Tyen Syi practice of Druk Yul. 

Blessings come in abundance when Palden Drukpa is truly pleased with the pureness of the Marchhang Offering. Great achievement come by when Palden Drukpai ChhoeChhangs are truly pleased.

Now I feel that it is possible for His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to avail the resources of wisdom and fortitude to succeed in the goal of establishing a proper normal  relationship with China and sign the Sino- Bhutan Border Agreement and at the same time develop genuine and  equal close  friendship with India. Hail to Indo- Bhutan equal and genuine Friendship, hereafter.

His Majesty the People's King just needs to love all  his people without reservation and make offering to the Deities in the most open and pureness of heart, mind and spirit. We need to have pure Trust, Love and Confidence within ourselves and in Palden Drukpa ChhoeChhangs. And a King must be at peace within himself and with  the Tsawa Sum to lead a nation in sovereign internal and external affairs. Yesterday on the 111th The National Day the  royal deed and address hearlded such a dawn of national self peace, unity and vision. Thank You Your Royal Majesty.  

The Kingdom of Bhutan may yet be destined to have a greater Wangchuck King who might just ultimately achieve the legacy that both His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and King Jigme Singye Wangchuck aspired to secure " the essence of true sovereign dignity " for the Kingdom of Bhutan and her people. Time is ripe now.

True love, respect and trust within the Kingdom is the absolute strength of our nation and of our King. Words and fine speeches are like glamour without virtue ( just like insincere election campaign rhetorics)  in absence of pureness of intent, heart, mind and spirit. Practice, Deed and Action builds a united society and a formidable nation.

May the powers of Guru Rimpoche bless our King on the Throne. May Lung Ku Chhoe Sum grace the Kingdom. Palden Drukpa Gyel Lo !

Saturday, December 15, 2018

National Day a Unity Day.

National Day is that of every Bhutanese. Not merely a celebration of the crowning day of the Wangchuck Dynasty on 17th December, 1907.  No Dzongda or National Day Celebration Committee should be worried about expenditures for the celebration being held this year at Samtse. Just make sure the accounts are clear and honest. I hear of Dzongdags trying to make expenditures appear less than actuals. No need to do that. National Day Celebration goal is not paying homage to the Monarchy. It is to celebrate our national life and our own national stories of achievements under the Monarchy. Just as generousity from India should not make DNT Goverment switch allegiance so must Dzongdags not forget the overall importance of National Day to Druk Yul. 

Ku- Sung- Thuk Mendey offering should be symbolic offering of gratitude to the Palden Drukpa Deities. His Majesty the King is the symbolic physical representation of our Deities who are invisible except in their protective deeds for the Druk Yul . The event should not be viewed as the Bue Day for the King nor rewarding of few deemed only the loyalists or most sincere servants to Tsawa Sum. Bhutan would be hard pressed if only so few are loyal and sincere.

National day must be viewed as a National Unity Day. Any and all genuine expeneses for the celebration are investment into the future. Do not ask people to contribute in labour or in material. The most precious offer from.people of all walks of life is affection for the unity of one people and one nation under one King.

The objective behind the success of celebration should be directed towards brightening the nationhood. Do not worry about the Royal mood. The King has to be happy if the nation has bright secured future. Do not expect invidual rewards for collective efforts though the past trend was in rewarding the individuals.   Few individuals do not make a nation. Together the people of Druk Yul make the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Sunday, December 9, 2018

Everything and all Gifts for India prior to Bhutanese PM Lotay Tshering's visit to India.

1. " With our hands stretched out to India for alms,  Bhutan cannot dictate ( Kha tala ma laap ju- mey tub )  " declared the PM in the 1st Friday Meet the Press session.  Bhutanese Print Media was so silent about it. Pehaps the significance could not be registered with dormant minds. Thank you BBS for airing the clip. BBS camermen   have a way of zeroing on beauties from amongst a crowd and BBS News producers have a knack of selecting video clips that conveys the crux of issues.  

Actually no Bhutanese leader has ever dictated terms upon India. Except maybe by the Third King of Bhutan in His Majesty's  absolute pursuit of UN membership for his Kingdom. And His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck achieved the goal. And yes the same King was not thrilled about seeking alms from India. Indian PM Pandit Nehru had it on record upon his return to India after his visit to Bhutan " The Maharaja of Bhutan is reluctant to accept offers of assistance ". 

2. " No further relationship development  with China " says Foreign Minister Dr. Tandin Dorji. 

3. " BBIN Transport Agreement ratification will be considered "  declares the new Government.

Read all these policies against the background of:

1. " External affairs of the Bhutan will be guided by His Majesty the King " the PM elect had declared before DNT cabinet was sworn in.

2. The DNT Political Party publicly announced that the " Party was submitting to His Majesty the list of all DNT elected MPs for the King to appoint the Cabinet Ministers ".

The message from DNT Party was clear. That His Majesty the King is in charge of foreign affairs like relationships with India and China. And that Cabinet Ministers are chosen by His Majesty. So it is pre- democracy Royal Government and therefore,  pre-democracy status quos with India and China will be maintained.

If His Majesty is really in direct charge of governance especially in matters of relationsips with China and India and the PM and FM are simply announcing  royal decisions, there is nothing to comment about. Any expression of different views can be construed as an act of sacrilege. Baby Bhutan better be left in the secured comfort of Indian arms suckling Mother India Breast if that is the Royal Majestic desire.

Let me only repeat here an old famous Bhutanese  proverb of caution. 

" Not advisable to predict the weather and the ways of a King "

My own thought is that the institution of Bhutanese Monarchy, too,  has all the compelling reasons to wrest away the Kingdom from day to day domination from India. A vision that many ordinary Bhutanese may also be  harbouring. I am one such humble subject of Druk Gyalpo.

Great friendship with a long time development Partner India  is desirable and important. But total subordination spells doom for national sovereignty if not for the welfare of common Bhutanese people and the leaders. And if PM Lotay has priority for alms over sovereignty " laab fa chang dey, kha ta lama laap ju- mey - tub ",  then Sikkim is an outstanding example to follow.

Let India take care of Bhutan. Why does Bhutan even need a namesake Royal Government, a Prime Minister or even a King? Just a situation of overburden of pile of bosses over Druk nation which seems to be  ultimately at the mercy of New Delhi.

PDP cabinet spent 5 years to push BBIN supremacy over Druk Yul and now DNT government's 1st priority is to pursue the same goal. Both PDP amd DNT Prime Ministers said that they are guided by the same King. If His Majesty the King is behind the push for " BBIN Supremacy " and " No Deal " with China then BBIN Transport Agreement should have been a Done Deal by now.  And Bhutanese Army  should have also  joined Indian Army at Doklam to invade China. But both did not happen.

So who is masterminding the affairs of Druk Yul? Is Bhutan an open prison captive of India,  having the right to move only within an allotted parameter? This could explain the dithering and withering policies of the not so majestic Royal Governments of Bhutan since 2013. 

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

The status of the nation during this Lombo.

Relieved to learn from "The Bhutanese " Paper that:

i) Royal Bhutan Government intends to stick to Rs.45 billion aid from India in the 12th Plan. The amount is similar to the 11th Plan.

ii) Also it seems the Bhutanese Cabinet will adopt the 12th Plan and the 5 year budget after the draft finalisation by GNH Commission before our Prime Minister visits India.

iii) Also I learned from a Samtse resident in a chance meeting that the National Day Celebration arrangements at Samtse is being supervided by the last Interium Government. In absence of Interium Goverenment the next time, it will be advisable for Royal Secretariat to be fully involved in National Day Event, hereafter. Because with Bhutanese Political Parties leaderships under Indian captivity, there is the possibility of Tri- colour ( Indian national flag ) flying above the Triangular orange and yellow colour national flag of Bhutan on 17th December.

There is already confirmation that this  Bhutanese Government will kowtow Indian wish to keep relationship with China at bay and also get further sucked into Indian orbit by pushing BBIN through Parliament.

So instead of Sino- Bhutan International Border Agreement and diplomatic ties, BBIN Agreement will be ratified during DNT tenure. The Bharat strangle hold tightens further.  

Should I be disheartened? Not really! Whats beyond is futile to be anxious about. Anyway, it was not my forefather who solely  accepted the task of maintaining sovereign dignity of Bhutan. Sorry thats no solace to most Bhutanese. But even in despair, I shall continue to pray and invoke the Deities of Palden Drukpa and the Triple Gem. Prayers are powerful force though not immedeiate or outright visible. 

  

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Lombo is here again! Happy Lombo!

For Haa and Paro, the year of  Dog of earth element ends on this Thursday the 6th of December, 2018 and simultaneously the New Year of Hog begins. I guess ( not sure ) the element maybe water. The Bhutanese calendar date is 29th of the 10th month. The New year period of 3 days is 29th and 30th of 10th month and 1st of the 11th month. Happy Lombo to all Families of Haa and Paro.

In all 20 Dzongkhag Dratsangs, venerable Lam Netens lead a week of Prayers to thank all the local and national Deities for the concluding year and to seek blessings and guidance for the coming new year. The Prayers conclude in the forenoon of   the 29th day ( this year falls on Thursday the 6th December)  with effigies of different Deities led out in a formal procession from the Dzong to an outside designated place for the final fire ritual ceremony.

At Thimphu Tashichhodzong, the annual Lombo Prayers are held at the Dhue- Khang. Those who are aware of the religious ritual, come to offer their nyndhas during Prayer days.

Wishing all readers a very Happy Lombo!
          

Monday, December 3, 2018

Facts about Bhutan- Japan relationship

1. Many senior  Bhutanese  identify Japan with a person known as Japan Saab ( Nishoka San ) and hold deep affection for the man and his country.   Dasho Nishoka was a Japanese born with a  Bhutanese heart. And there are quite a few such friends of Bhutan among the Japanese people. My deep respects to them.

2. Japan is the 2nd largest development partner of Bhutan. We are now into the 32nd diplomatic relationship. Quite remarkable!

3. The goodwill and honest friendship between the Imperial House of Japanese Emperor and the Royal House of Wangchuck Dynasty is incredibly genuine and trust worthy.

4. The goodwill between the two people of Bhutan and Japan is also durable.

5. The political relationsip is unfortunately very opportunistic from the Japanese Government side. His Excellency Kenji Hiramatsu  Ambassador of Japan to India is also accredited as non- resident Ambassador to Bhutan. And he has to know what I mean.

During Doklam transgression by Indian troops  from June to August, 2017, only the Ambassador of Japan to India publicly backed Indian aggression upon Bhutanese sovereignty. No other nation in the whole world  endorsed the Indian troop transgression upon the disputed territory between Bhutan and China. Even United States of America  which is competing with China in Asian region did not publicly stand with India because it was a known fact that India was not challenging China at Doklam. She was only trying to overtake Bhutanese claims at Doklam.

I pray and hope that the Japanese Government would be more sensitive and sincere in following a policy of goodwill and genuine friendship with sovereign Kingdom of Bhutan in attune with the spirit of  friendship between two people and the two Royal Houses of Bhutan and Japan. 

Happy Japanese Week Celebration in Bhutan.

Sunday, December 2, 2018

Dreams and Visions.

Dreams and visions share a common trait known as hope. These live on even if the original dreamer and vision setter  are no more. These  are like souls floating around until a mass is found to be lighted up again. It is alright to dream and to set a vision. Such is the wonder of human nature of hope and destiny of a society.  

Many things can be accomplished in one life time. However, the truth of history is also that great accomplishments take place over several life times with dreams and visions of hope carried over bridges and vales through different time periods and by several successive individuals and forces until such are transformed into deeds.

Leaders die out and societies undergo changes but dreams and visions live on until fruition. Such is the durability of  flame of hope.

Monday, November 26, 2018

Bhutanese PM visit to India.

In keeping with close  Indo- Bhutan relationship, the Government of India has invited the new PM of Bhutan to visit India. A very kind gesture. Such a visit needs to be convenient to both Bhutan and India in sense of timing.

I hope the Bhutanese Parliament can convene and discuss and approve the 12th 5 year Plan before the India visit by our Prime Minister. It should be Bhutanese 12th 5 year plan not India approved plan in perception. Thats why the Bhutanese Parliament must convene to discuss and approve the Plan before the PM visit to India. Otherwise the Bhutanese PM would be discussing draft 12th Plan of Bhutan at New Delhi. And that would be a precedent of misfortune for the much yearned for Bhutanese sovereign dignity by majority of Bhutanese. The path to sovereign dignity must not be made more difficult by thoughtless and rash precedent set now. 

Perception and Tendrel is important. In 2013, the 1st Cabinet Meeting of PDP formed government had the Ambassador of India to Bhutan sort of gracing it. And through out the 5 years 2013- 2018 period,  by design or default, Bhutan had India leading in all national affairs of Bhutan including the Doklam transgression.  Now if Bhutan PM visits India even before the 12th 5 year Plan is adopted by Bhutanese Parliament, then the state of Bhutanese  national affairs could very well be similar to a state of the Indian Union.  

Dhana or inauspicious month should not hold back the 1st  Parliament session. The Cabinet has been formed and the Speaker already appointed. All the MPs have taken office. The 12 Plan is more or less ready.

Auspicious timing for the government and the Parliament is the day the MPs got elected and next is when they assembled at the Parliament Hall to register and receive their dakyen as MPs. After that the PM, the Speaker, the Opposition Leader and the Cabinet Ministers were given Dhars by the King. Parlianent session is just part of the 5 year tenure task of all MPs and governance of the nation. Not a fresh  beginning of a new task for new members. 

  

Saturday, November 24, 2018

An ideal goldmine the premier educationist.

Lyonpo Thakur S Powdyel the realtime perennial educationist  was Education Minister for the 5 year term of DPT Political Party formed 1st Bhutanese  Democratic Government 2008- 2013. However, his fame and name has to do with his tenure at Sherubtse College as the premier guide and teacher to the language of the Queen which has dominated the world of communication and literature. 

There could be debates about the administrative acumen of Lyonpo Thakur. But in so far as an educationist Thakur S Powdyel, there seems no equals in the Kingdom of Bhutan. And His Excellency can hold his own with the best in the world in his academic profession.

A nation with a sound education objective would have such a gem of an educationist as a roving teacher of english language, literature and gnh wholesome education. And private High  Schools or Colleges that want to attain premier standard and attract students would beg him to lead their academic department.

I feel Lyonpo Thakur Singh Powdyel dabbled with politics only to gain service to a broader field of national education system. He does not seem to be a hard core politician. He  cannot have his heart in the hazzles of management and administration because by nature he is a man of prose, poem and the english language.

Bhutanese private schools and colleges should think out of box and take a premiere education quality leap forward with the realtime educationist Lyonpo Thakur S Powdyel. Such an institution would be investing in a rich gold mine.

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

The Dharma Raja and Robert Thurman ( Kuensel headline News 20th Nov, 2018 )

Looks like an Agency in Bhutan felt the need to strengthen the status of the King and had hired an Americam Professor who dabbles in Tibetan Buddhism to tell Bhutanese people about the essence of "dharma raja"  in democracy.

Bhutan under the constitutional monarchy democracy is a declared secular Kingdom. And I am not at all sure of the hired professor's angle of politics of " dharma raja ".  In so far as democracy in Bhutan is concerned, the people have accepted with solace the gift of democracy. And at the same time the  people dearly respect the vital role of the Monarchy in the security and stability of the nation in the era of democracy under constitutional monarchy.

Democracy is new in Bhutan and we are still in the process of finding the most appropriate and acceptable path of governance. There is no unsurmountable disagreement. Just some adjustments in thought process and working style.  The institution of Monarchy and the three wings of governance will surely find the confidence and the reverence for the objectives of the Constitution and adopt ways to acieve the same. And any necessary solution must be out of  Bhutanese effort.  Not that of a foreigner in search of a personal comfort niche within the Bhutanese hierachy.

So within Bhutan, this " dharma raja " preaching from a hired foreigner is a waste of money and surreal. Perhaps he could spread his belief to re-settled Jafa refugees in his home country the United States of America.  It was mostly those people who led the revolt against the King and Country during 1989/90. 

And by the way, "dharma raja"  was a title referred by foreign visitors to Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Bhutan has changed over to Monarchy since the adoption of the Monarchy system in 1907. Now we have the 5th hereditary Wangchuck King on the Throne. Not a " dharma raja " though ofcourse His Majesty is a Buddhist by birth.

Saturday, November 17, 2018

Changes at the religious Throne?

Looks like there will be a change over from His Holiness the 70th Je Khenpo to the 71st Je Khenpo by end of this year. Most probably the most smoothest transfer of a spiritual responsibility and transition in the history of Central Monk Body. His Holiness the 70th Je Khenpo Truelku Jigme Chhoedra has been ready to retire for quite some time. And the Venerable Dorji Lopon has been upholding the Dratsang responsibilities of the Je Khenpo including leading the Summer and Winter migration journey  between Punakha and Thimphu for quite sometime. 

My one hope and prayer is that His Holiness Truelku Jigme Chhoedra will continue to grace the Moelam Chhenmos in the Dzongkhags especially that of Haa where it all began.  And also give Teachings on many more aspects of life and living and spiritual ways of Lord Buddha. His Holiness is a genuine leader of humanity in spirit, knowledge, discipline and practice. A Supreme Leader amongst the greatest that blessed this world in matters of compassion, courage and dedication. 

For His Holiness, doing things right was of utmost importantance. I am sure His Holiness deeply respects the Je Khenpo Throne and the historic opportunity bestowed upon him to grace it for so many years. And yet His Holiness is one kind of a spiritual and worldly leader who would maintain a standard of personal human dignity that no post or honour could compromise. Indeed a rare genius of a spiritual Truelku who never got  compromised by the temporal powers or affluence.

Many years back, I had the honour of being in an audience granted by His Holiness at Punakha Dzong  to Haa Chhundu Tsogpa which sought to seek His Holiness to grace the next Moelam Chhenmo in Haa.  I was the Chairman of Chhudu Tsogpa but fellow colleagues  like Dasho( Dr) Gado Tshering and our all rounder indispensable PJ ( Pema Juney ) who had closer communications with His Holiness had arranged the audience. During the audience on the subject of Dharma, I humbly submitted my wishful thinking.

" Your Holiness, we hear about other religions now taking root within our Buddhist Kingdom. ( Those were times when  democracy and secularism had not arrived and Buddhism was State religion. Now it is different and I accept national realities of secular vision). One reason could be Dratsang's inability to spread the words of Dharma. Most of the successive Je Khenpos were elderly, travel was arduous for lack of motor road and in the past there were fewer people who could sponsor religious events of Wangs and Lungs. Now the nation is in much better shape and Your Holiness is in prime age with good health. Under the stewardship of Your Holiness, I feel we have arrived at a fresh dawn of Buddha Dharma ". His Holiness  smiled and though he responded kindly, I never imagined the leaps and bounds that came about throughout the Kingdom in the Teachings and Practices of Lord Buddha Dharma  under the reign of the 70th Je Khenpo.

There is now annual Moelam Chhenmos in all 20 Dzongkhags. In addition His Holiness conducted the Dechok Khorlo at Punakha and Kanju Reading at Kuensel Phodrong Thimphu. And this year the Moelam Chhenmo was performed by our own Dratsang at Rajgir the Seat of Buddha Teachings in India. For me this is all a Triple Gem achievements by His Holiness.
There must be many other equally sacred deeds unknown to me. I only have views from afar. But I hold dearly the few moments of Blessings from His Holiness in forms of great  thoughts and holy wisdoms shared. 

At home, when His Holiness came upon the Chhoetse Throne, even new admission into monkhood was restricted. The Royal  Government was not favourable to increasing monk numbers for some strange reasons. Today the scenario has been transformed. Now all are welcome to join the monkhood. And it is also easier to leave monkhood. There is less stigma. His Holiness has taken monkhood as a way of providing education for self and society development and not just devotion to Dharma itself. The number of Sheydras and Drupdreys flourished in the nation and the strengthening of Dzongkhag Dratsangs to serve the communities especially in times of griefs  are incredible strides made under the stewardship of His Holiness. 

To some rare individuals of great accomplishments the word " impossible " is not in their intent and goal. Like the sun, His Holiness lighted  up the whole Bhutanese national communities from central to all directions. His Holiness has been a glowing source of inspiration and affection. His Holiness is truly the  Love of the nation. May it be the good fortune of Bhutan and Bhutanese to have His Holiness amongst us in good health and in active Dharma Teaching Practices. Long Live His Holiness Truelku Jigme Chhoedra the 70th Je Khenpo of Bhutan.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Freedom Prisons in all 20 Dzongkags say Bhutanese Prime Minister from DNT Party.

First public pledge more Prisons and witch hunts  by DNT Party formed government. Great vengeance  goings for a Party but horror for a nation. For a while there was a light of hope for national unity  and moving on in unison with real national priorities. Now this new DNT pledge by the Prime Minister.

Why feel insecure DNT Party even after being declared the comfortable winner and taking the reign of governance? There is no call to eliminate  all semblance of  oppositions or difference of opinion in democracy unless the intent is to  murder the essence of the  lauded gift of democracy. Election is over but scores to settle a galore!

First public commitment to built additional  prisons in all 20 Dzongkhags instead of hospitals or schools. First public commitment to witch hunt fake account holders to fill  the new prisons instead of creating job  opportunities for jobless people. Revolutionary means of solving lack of employment opportunities.

Certainly not a national  government in objective. A Political Party Cabinet with national mandate to fulfill political vengeance or simply side tracking campaign pledges. I thought all one time DNT pledges were doable. Full employment is just a vision but improvements is real possiblility. Alas! The  Party is  set upon a campaign of election period vengeance the next 5 years. A sure path to national discord and social fear for national lifetime. 

Fake accounts and false propaganda posts surged during the elections. Could be political party inspired also rather than only  individual doings. DNT Party, too, cannot be totally innocent. But such things do not warrant national governance priority. These malicious wind of politics simmer down naturally if fair and positive  governance takes hold after the election.     

I did not believe this new DNT Party political vengeance mantra until a video was shared on the 1st declared priority of the new government.  And still I feel it is a joke in bad taste. However,  persecution has never guranteed the life lasting authotity of a dictator. Unfortunately terror regimes have destroyed societies and nations all over the world. Prayers may not help but still prayers must be offered for our tiny Druk Yul. 

Monday, November 12, 2018

Management cloud at Thimphu National Referral Hospital.

The Bhutan Medical and Health Council ( BMHC ) determined that the negligences of 3 doctors and 3 nurses at the premier Thimphu Referral Hospital  caused death of a surgery patient. A young man in his 30s died after surgery due to lack of proper medical attention. Few months back the same hospital lost several newborns at a go. The blame was conveniently put on water supply quality as if new borns are given water to drink especially if born a little premature.   ( courtesy Kuensel ).

The negilgence is too common to be blamed on just respective individuals. The illness seems to run through out the system. There have been also rumours about cases of wrong diagnosis and even botched operations that ultimately caused death of patients. Well I guess certain percentages of fallouts occur even in best of hospitals. Not every patient can be cured. Death is part of heath services because healthy people do not seek medical treatment. Thats why death certificates are usually issued by Hospitals and recognised by concerned agencies including insurance companies. But the frequency is worrying. And negligence in such manner is alarming.

All 3 doctors and 3 nurses failed the same patient. That means other patients survived not because of attentions given by these same doctors and nurses. An indication of robotic attendance of duties as per roster but devoid of any professional sense of duty and responsibility. There has to be a more malignant root cause for such glaring shortcomings than just simply dereliction of duties by few professionals. I also wonder about the attitude of the surgeon who operated the patient,  towards his fellow professional colleagues whose follow up services are equally vital for the good health of the surgery patient.

Maybe the present system of management introduced by the last government should be re-examined.  Better go back to the original management ways. And appoint a worthy senior medical professional at the top in place  of political appointees. No disrespect to present President Dasho Lhab Dorji. I am sure he must be doing the best possible. But just as it is said that it takes a thief to catch a thief perhaps a professional Chief can alleviate this malady in medical services.

Another suggestion would be to route all VIP medical services through the management instead of direct contact with individual doctors. VIPs must be attended but by any qualied doctor not just specific doctor or nurse which could be creating a class category among similar able professionals.. That way work load is evenly distributed as well as social recognition. Also this will prevent doctors taking leave from regular duty on pretext of phatom VIP services.

In our social environment,  there are also cases of as the proverb goes " the yak hauls the load and the yak herder howls off the triump of achievement ". Credit must go to all those doctors and staffs who keep the hospital running efficiently not just to few who attend to VIPs or perform in public eyes.  The National Referral Hospital  seems to be afflicted with low morale which is usually associated with dis-satisfaction with work environment, unequal opportunity and lack of recognition of hard work.  Not about monetary benefits such as salary that most people, I think, wrongly also associate with teaching quality or teacher retention. Money is important but in my career as a CEO, inspiration and  motivation have lots to do with management fairness and due recognition of individual  endeavours. Not just how much you can pay. Also one person upmanship does not build a successul and dedicated team.   And most task are of team work nature especially in the hospital. Its not like a court room where one judge is liable for a good or bad verdict. 

Sorry about such unfortunate failures. But we must keep in mind that there are also many, many success stories at the Thimphu Referral Hospital but not highlighted. Afterall, butchers killing cows do not make news except for holier than thou pretenders of piety in public. And likewise, doctors curing patients, too, are taken for granted as it is their profession though by saving a life a doctor would have  prevented the  bereavement of a family and perhaps changed for better the fortune of a family, too. Thus actually saving multiple of lives through curing  one patient.

Thank you doctors and nurses and all related but working behind the scenes at Thimphu Referral Hospital. Your services are appreciated but our expectations are also higher because of your success ratio.  

Sunday, November 11, 2018

The war within. Silent takeover of Haa by Indian Army with RBA as the conduit.

Every time I think of Haa my birth place, the image of IMTRAT an arm of Indian Army clouds my vision. And it has become deeply painful since the GOI interference in 2013 General Election, the cancellation of Southern Bhutan highway construction and Indian Army  invasion last year at Doklam. Wondering about situations  of Bhutan, hereafter.

Haa Dzong itself was handed over to Indian military  to house the headquarter of IMTRAT in early 1960s. A temporary measure that turned to permanent occupation.  However,  most of the area in the periphery had initially remained under the jurisdiction of Haa Dzongkhag Administration. But gradually over the years, more area were surrendered to the Indian Army including large areas of apple orchards and wheat fields which fall under the category of crown properties and also some community lands. The last major surrender was done during the sunset tenure of Gooenlyon Lam Dorji as Chief of Operations of Royal Bhutan Army.  I rue the national decision to register Dha- Chhab- sey Pang and surrounding areas in the name of RBA. The Royal Bhutan Army has become  the conduit of Indian Army takeover of more territories in Haa. The whole  beautiful nature shaped stadium like  Dha-chhab-sey Pang is under Indian Army control.

This beautiful flat stretch of land  along Haa river used to be traditional community recreational and  grazing area  mainly of Wangtsa village and also used for  major national events in Haa Valley including archery tournaments. Thats where the  2nd King HM Jigme Wangchuk , 3rd King as HRH Paro Penlop, Hon'ble  Gongzim Sonam Tobgay and his son as Hon'ble  Haa Drung Jigme Palden Dorji ( later 1st PM of Bhutan  ) played archery match with Haa Paazabs mostly from Wangtsa village. It is part of  immense historic heritage of national joy and celebration.

In the absence of Bhutanese jurisdiction over this Dha-Chhab-Sey Pang area, the otherwise grand National Day of 2017 was celebrated at the complex of Lhakhang Karpo. The Lhakhang complex is alright for regular Tsechu but too inadequate in space for such grand  national event as was the 2017 National Day celebrations. But what to do? Even the presence of two Druk  Kings failed to warrant the use of  the traditional nature designed stadium adorned by the Haa Chu for National Day celebration. Many Haaps ended up at Lhakhang Karpo witnessing national day celebrations on video screens installed behind the Lhakhang. And many more in front of cable tv at homes.    

Maybe the traditional significance did not strike the royal attention. His Majesty the 3rd King had warned me of the generation gap he feared would happen. I a high school student could only submit that then the Crown Prince be also engaged in official duties part time whilst still schooling. That was done.  But Bhutan could never fully bridge the sudden huge vaccum of wisdom and experience left by unexpected early death of the King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. In governance, power is replaceable as Bhutan has done already three times in a short span of 10 years democracy.  Not wisdom and experience.       

The saving grace in Haa is the present fishery farm area known as NjaChu which traditionally belonged to the  Baa- gye-na and Lha-yulkha  villages. It was initially converted to Imtrat Firing Range in the 1960s. But firing range was discontinued  after Deity Chha- na- Dorji was rumoured to have appeared in human form to confront the Imtrat Commandant on one solitary dusky evening during the commandant's  evening walk  and directed him to stop the  firing as it was a disturbance. This saved the ground from further Imtrat advance. Today major part of Ngachu ground is occupied by cold water fishery farm. So it remains in Bhutanese hand. 

Since last few years, I have noticed Imtrat / Dantak carrying out some sort of development work at the DumChho Tse- Kha. Indian Army helicopters on occassions also use it as a helipad. But till now,  it is a common multi- purpose ground for all. The DumChho villagers use it as an recreational area plus ofcourse for grazing.  They also have an archery range  there. Cows still graze in the meadow and during Haa Tsechu, it is   filled with joyful gatherings of many families with luncheon picnics. But I fear that gradually the Indian Army will attempt to takeover this multi purpose recreational area of the  villagers and their cows. And as is the practice,  RBA will claim this beautiful spacious riverside meadow and then surrender the same to the Indian Army control and usage.

I do not protest Imtrat/ Dantak presence in Bhutan for the ways of our Kings and ChhoeChangs are beyond me. But I fear further expansion and consolidation of one foreign power over Druk Yul.

Indian Army seeks exclusivity and unlimitted domain. At one time,  Imtrat attempted to change highway alignment from Dunchho bridge junction to deny througfare to Haa public. That was stopped by housewives of Dunchho village. Then Imtrat went on to construct an Entrance Gate to their establishment to monitor public passage. That too was stopped through community protest. This year after several years of holding  open  seasonal camps for their troops in the community forest hills , the Indian Army starting fenching off permanent troop camps at Wangtsa community water source. Fortunately, RBA intervened after the villagers protested. It turned out that the  Indian Army was acting on their own without any limitation from Royal Bhutan Army and His Majesty the King. The Bhutanese democratic government has no authority over Indian Army doings in Bhutan. And simple villagers think that Indian Army has the King's approval until it became a matter of survival related to water source.

I am just praying that the present Chief of Operations of Bhutan Army would desist the  demand for Dumchho Tsekha land  by the Indian Army. General Batoo Tshering  is not from Haa but has deep respects for Ap Chhundu out of personal experience. Very often in the history of Haa, it has been non-Haap officials who demonstrated genuine concerns for Haa. Dasho Dzongdag Tshering Wangda who hails from Shemgang did more for Haa than all Prime Ministers and Cabinet Ministers from Haa put together. It was unfortunate that Dasho was not even given three years tenure in Haa. I guess central power in Thimphu chickened out under pressure from Indian Army command.

Dasho Dzongdag Sherab Dorji who upgraded  Haa town with better inter road and parking facilities and constructed farm roads long before democracy and Political Party pledges era was from Wangdue. And present Dasho Dzongdag Kinzang Dorji who has brought back cultural and spiritual roles of Haa Dzong Utse, improved residency facilities of the few monks quartered within  the " Imtrat  Dzong " Utse and even managed to install the HM Kupar at the entrance of Imtrat colony is from Paro. My heart melted with pride and joy on December 17th, 2017 when I saw the King's portrait on the huge  board that had displayed for a long time an Indian Army Poster.  Presently, I gather from BBS tv coverage that Dasho Dzongdag is doing his best to promote home-stead tourism in Haa. He has also endeavoured to expand the Summer Festival to promote tourism in Haa. I have  met him once two years ago and found him to be an astute diplomat turned  administrator with a sincere community development heart cushioned in national pride.

There is the need of much more tourism development  activities to carry out at Haa Dzongkhag including opening up all restricted areas to tourist trekking routes. The DNT Party formed royal government must wisely seek Royal support to overcome Indian Army objection against opening more trekking routes in northern hills of Haa Dzongkhag? I guess  a Home Minister with declared  emphasis on religion and culture only,  would not on his own be able to take charge of real home authority versus Indian Army and Indian  Embassy within the Kingdom. Actually apart from Late Dasho Lam Penjor and Prime Minister JYT, no PM or Ministers or Army Chiefs appointed by the King or elected by the people could defend their administrative turf against Indian Army, DANTAK and Indian Embassy. Most were too dearly attached to self befits from their political posts. So now how much leverage of authority the present  Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Bhutan can  exercise in opening up our own regions to tourism development depends upon how serious the two  are in their campaign pledge of " Narrowing the Gap ".  In this particular case of Haa  the " Gap " is not between rich and poor Bhutanese in Haa but between the authoritarian imposition of Indian Army jurisdiction  and livelihood rights of much deprived Haa people.

I guess they too dare not risk losing their posts midway. However,  the hon'ble Prime Minister Lotay Tshering had sought for just 5 years of political leadership. Perhaps he might just risk it. The Palden Drukpai ChhoChang at times have demonstrated out of box formula to save Bhutan. The Prime Minister  did receive his Druk Thuesey Medal on 17th December, 2017 at Haa in the presence of Miri Phuen- Sum which is known away from Haa as Risum Goenpos or Triple Gem. The power of Triple Gem is real not imagined. I witnessed it during Doklam invasion by Indian Army when I went to Haa to pray to the Miri Phuen Sum and Goen Tsebarme and seek guidance.  

It was Prime Minister Jigme Yoeser Thinlay who pushed for tourism development in Haa. The DPT formed royal government instituted the Haa Summer Festival. It was not to counter the over garish Indian Army annual Mela at Haa.  Summer Festival of Haa is purely a tourism promotion festival highlighting the tradition and culture aspects of Haa and it does reveal true nature of Haa as a simple honest hardworking society. There is no tradition of masters and slaves in Haa. We are equal prideful group of clan who must venture out of Haa to sustain our home families in Haa.

Sumner festival is so much about Haa but  ironically, most officials of Haa origin do not attend the Summer Festival though many including  Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay from Haa give prominence to Imtrat Mela by their continuous presence.  Thus in my opinion, the most gracious high ranking officials of Haa origin  are those who neither helped nor harmed Haaps. Therefore, I do not mourn the dearth of cabinet seat for  Haa this time for reasons of securing tangible benefit for Haa Dzongkhag from such positioned persons from Haa.   But still, I wish a Haap had a cabinet seat in this DNT formed  government. A Minister or Prime Minister from Haa may not be of  help to  Haa Dzongkhag development  but their personal successes are inspirations to the dreams of young generations of Haaps.  From the bottom of my heart, I comprehend the enormity of joy and pride of the Merak Sakteng Community in their 1st Ministership. Congratulations!!!

Haa people like myself feel aggrieved with the expansion and consolidation of Indian Army authority in Haa.  But feel quite  powerless to even express regrets about such. I had to think over so much just to pen this article.  Both RBA and National Land Commission whose cooperation the Indian Army need to extend their domination are under direct authority of His Majesty the King. So we dare not question their actions least these are done under Royal Command. The respect for His Majesty the King is sacrosanct.   But I personally cannot believe that at this wordly stage, our Kings would give preference to Indian Army over rural community and national interests. Thus I decided to make a reference to attract national attention in case a remedy is forthcoming. Hope not penalty. But what to do. Someone among Bhutanese must voice out the national discomfort.

Chhab-Su-Chey!  Chhab-Su- Chey!
Jharo Dongchen Gyalpo dhang Drukpai  ChhoeChang Kenchho  Sum! 
Chhab- Su- Chey! Chhab-Su- Chhey!
Jaagar marmi Jaa lu zhhu!
Jaami marmi Jaa-na zhhu!

Nga-cha-ra Drukpai Mitser  
Dhang-Fu Pha-ma zimpai Gyal-Wangtse ( sovereign dignity ) 
Dhataa Bhutsa rangla thobpai Moelom shhugye!
Ngoen Jaa Druk Boe gi Tsonglam Tashi Delek!
Jaa-Druk-Jaana thuenlam nyamrup-
dranym zoyie  Moenlam shhugye !
Jaana Jaagar Thuendrel jinlap
Druk Palden Densa gnuelju shhugye! 

Thuji zee! Thuji Zee! Mewang Nga dhang
Khesar Gyalpo Wangchuck  Chhog !
Druk Gyal Khap rang gi Wangtse Wang!
Druk Mitser Saachha sokchog zey!
Jaagar Wangtse Jaalu zim!
Gyalju Tendrel Zangpoi Moelam Shhog !
Palden ChhoChang Kencho Sum!
Chhab- Su- Chhey! Chab- Su- Chhey!

P.S. Please join me in  recitation, if you will, this national prayers. Dzongkha lettering  welcome. 

Saturday, November 10, 2018

Home Ministry is not just culture and religion.

O O mine 18th century Bhutan. Culture and Religion the goals of new government Home Ministry!  Sounds we are in for more discipline and disharmony. Maybe we could slow down on more dictates about dzongkhag , gho, kira, kamni and rachu and beliefs.  There is so much overflowing progression in these supposed needs, wants and dictates. How about concentrating some ministerial efforts on building social harmony, freedom of expression and secularism, tackling drug and alcohol social impacts and doing away with some draconian social laws?   Ministry of Home and Culture Affairs is not just " Culture and Religion ".  There is a whole national society that thirst for understanding and a helping hand. Not religious and culture lessons and dictates. And certainly not imprismsonment for 19 year old boy student having consensual sex with 17 year old girl student. Why act so holy and inclusive when deeds and intent speak differently?  A Minister who speaks only of religion and culture is a cult minister not a Home Minister. 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Casualities at the top of political Parties.

Dasho Neten Zangmo's offer of  resignation from Presidency of BKP Party was a foregone conclusion. All past Presidents of unsuccessful elections have resigned. But in her case, many false hearts must also share the blame along with her. So many in social media and her own social circle paid too much  lip service homage to her decade long tenure at the ACC. All turned out to be superficial in essence. And in her make believe world, she thought all she had to do was declare her intention to be the Prime Minister of anti corruption image.  I genuinely expected her to do better than she behaved at the Primary Party presidential debate. I wish her well, hereafter.

Anyway,  the entertaining trophy of Primary election  debate still belongs to BKP Samtse candidate another constitutional post holder. Now Bhutanese public cannot be blamed having misgivings about poor selections in few constitutional post holders. And ofcourse the super trophy of silence for final round election debate goes to North Paro DNT candidate. North Paro voters especially the Bondey side underscored the essence of Bhutanese democracy. They have chosen silent representation in the Parliament. I am sure that DPT candidate of North Paro is not just heart broken but structure felled unless he comes around to appreciate the honest wisdom of the voters. But ofcourse MP Ugyen Tshering will not be silent for he has found his voice again. 

Democracy has lots of humour both sweet and sour tales. But it is worth our time and imagination. I honour and admire all who give a shot at personal prospects in life at both the general and local elections. Sorry that one tends to remember only the winners of today. But the rich experience will be for all  the braves to reap. And so is the associated risks of jobs at hand and related investments of time and money.

Good bye 2018 election fever. Thank you ECB. And BBS Team thank you for that nerve wrecking 20- 20 display national  tease. Woh ! Haha ha !  BBS almost changed the fate of democracy in Bhutan.

From tomorow, we dedicate to a new government with a new cabinet. Bhutan as a nation has to win in unity. . And may the fresh cabinet team headed by Prime Minister His Excellency Lotay Tshering be guided well by our People's King and blessed by Druk Chhoe Chongs. The people have chosen and for once in the beginning the Tsawa Sum must be prepared to give adequate  space and offer prayers for the success of the Bhutanese 3rd democratic government.      

Friday, November 2, 2018

The Post of Speaker and the incongruities.

In political heirachy in Bhutan, the Speaker is next to Prime Minister. And yet the post is not necessarily the coveted  choice of the political eligibles. Most prefer a cabinet berth at a Ministry.

The Speaker can only do common good deeds for the nation. Not for a group or an individual. And such post does not augur well for many who seek a different kind of power and influence. There is hardly any room or opportunity to do self serving deeds. No room to manipulate or find means to do favours. Corruption and corrupt practices are not what makes a Speaker powerful in Bhutan. Being faithful to the Office and truly non partisan and directing the Parliament to the national course constitutes the legacy of a Speaker.

Unlike other government Ministers, a Speaker does not glow with power and affluence during the tenure. However, it is the Speaker who will be remembered long after all others have faded away. The two former Speakers have put the interest of the nation and the well being of the people in the forefront. I wish the third Speaker all the best.  

The Speaker of Parlianent in Bhutan is as much the pillar of democracy as is the Chief Justice  the central foundation of Judiciary and Justice in Bhutan. Parliament and Judiciary are key features of a vibrant democratic nation. And the Speaker  and the Chief Justice are the souls of Parliament and Judiciary. Therefore, we all have a duty to respect them and uphold their uncompromised dignity of the Office.

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Why does Bhutanese society want change every 5 years?

From Gasa Dzongkhag in the  highland with the least voter numbers to Samtse the most populated Southern Dzongkhag, people voted for change. If given an opportunity, looks like most Bhutanese would desire changes in governing authority each year not every 5 years.

Looking at the election result, it seems that those in Western and Lhotsampa populated Dzongkhags are more regionally divisive or ethnically united than people beyond Pelela. However, this might not necessarily be indicative of the actual nature of the people. The gravity of the force of push and pull of campaign strategies  could also have  been a big factor as to how voters behaved. 

The 2018 election was again somehow projected as us against them, poor versus rich, pro- Monarchy versus anti- Monarchy. 
The end result is quite dramatic. The PDP Party which kept referring to its core dedication to the King was defeated in the Primary. And DPT Party which has been tagged as anti-monarchy lost out in the final round. The DNT Party has a President with established royalist credentials and presumed to be backed by elite groups and yet people opted for the anti- establishment tone and socialist pledges of DNT Party. In a way this response demonstrares thst the  Bhutanese society is more socialist than capitalist or royalist.

The active combination of DNT and PDP in the final round proved decisive in swinging several constituencies in DNT favour. But the tell tale sign is the endurance and depth of DPT Party foundation which withstood  all that the majority of Ngalongs, Lhotsampas, DNT plus PDP combined team and  some more could throw at it. The end result was 55% voters for DNT that leaves 45% of voters  for DPT all over the Kingdom. The variation in constituency number seems large but actual vote difference is only 10%. That means DPT too enjoys wide support especially in the light of very high voter turn out of over 71%. The divide is very distinct. Against the backdrop of this stark reality, I had humbly made a plea and pray for a National Coalition Government. We have to make attempts now to unite and  not divide further. However, DNT the Party at the centre stage seems to be indicating  that on its own the Party  can succeed in bringing the nation together. Superficially yes in terms of law and order but in essence very doubtful. And the other three political Parties have maintained a ghostly public silence.     

So where does the results of two stages of General Elections leave the politics of the Bhutanese nation?

1. The powers that be as in backers of different Parties do not want a strong democratic leader.  The corner stone goal seems to be deny a second term to any Prime Minister. In fact the royal patented constitution does not permit more than two terms of PM post by an individual. Further the limit of maximum 65 years of birth age in active politics prevents entrenchment of political power in an individual. Haha ! Mr. Mahathir the 92 years old present  Prime Minister of Malaysia would be circumbulating Memorial Chorten with a bead string in his hand if he happened to be a Bhutanese political leader.  But jokes a aside, power do corrupt even pious hermits if held for long duration.  

2. Bhutan does not need  a challenger to the Throne in any form. I also believe the Kingdom is too small for two power centres. The King has to remain the number one authority for continued stability in a Kingdom. Otherwise like in Thailand both the King and the Prime Minister will be looking for Army support.

3.  Changing Political Party and thereby the Prime Minister at every election may also indicate a dis-satisfaction in the royal prescribed democracy. The Indian type of democracy without monarchy was called for by Southern Bhutanese in their uprising of 1989-90. The Institution of Monarchy on its own had initiated democratic changes  from 1952 with a people elected cum royal appointed National Assembly Body. The Wangchuck Dynasty  completed the gradual democratic process in 2008 with the introduction of constitutional King democracy.

But the trend in vote for change is undeniable and it  also clearly indicated that the Throne is not a crucial  election issue as far as the general voters are concerned. An indication that people want more substantive changes but under the Wangchuck Dynasty. Corrections not overhaul.

Today during every General Election, the Kingdom seems to be caught in a quagmire of anxieties for the King who has to preserve the good  health of the nation and the Monarchy versus the Political Parties, the  deep distrust or fear among Sharchop communities and possibly foreign enhanced insecurity and resentment  amongst Lhotsampa communities. The political web of complexities needs to be untangled. .  

People in general are not unhappy with services and service facilities. They appreciate FCB and new fair  price farm shops,  helicopter emergency services, the farm roads and power tillers, the marketting service for farm products, the mobile networks, clean drinking water supplies and electricity in homes at subsidized rate, health & education services, efforts in increasing employment opportunities for youth, improved  irrigation and facilitation of cash crops.  They even understand  the necessity of big loan Hydro Projects for self reliance goal. Bhutan has seen unprecedented development under the Wangchuck reigns. Its kind of a leap from medieval age to modern era in 110 years. Something to be proud about though not comparable to say the transformation of Japan in about 30 years after disastrous WW II.   And yet change is what people continue to demand and support in every election. It could be a search beyond material services and infratructure developments though these are very essential. 

4.  In all three General Elections, it has been shown that democratic politics in Bhutan is determined by the swings of majority ethnic groups. The social grouping  nature of Sharchops and Lhotsampas along with their majority in number are more attuned to democratic politics than minority Ngalongs further weakened by their individualistic social nature. Perhaps one valid reason to stick with Monarchy for us the out numbered Ngalongs.  

5. The East cannot have fundamental antipathy against the Monarchy as perceived in some section of the socio- political heirachy. The Wangchuck Dynasty originated from the East and the Royal Family tree root is more widely spread in Eastern Dzongkhags than in the West.   In 2013, the perception that the King backed PDP candidates versus DPT candidates somehow disturbed the psyche of Party supporters from different parts of Bhutan not just that of East.  And this led to the outburst of grievances at  DPT Party Meeting in July, 2013. The actual reason for 2013  DPT supporters' outburst relates to the  PDP Party campaign.  PDP had claimed to be pro- King Party and tagged DPT Party as anti- King during election campaigns. The strategy proved to be a magical wand serving well the interests of PDP Party but most damaging to the national embodiment.

In democratic polity, election rhetorics takes all kinds of shapes and sizes. Bhutanese politicians adopted the external  election rhetorics of allegations and deception. But the traditional Bhutanese rural society especially the under developed communities in the East are ill prepared for such an onslaught of allegations and falsehoods. For example in Western Dzongkhag like Haa unless directly charged by the King, such allegation of being anti- King would be laughed off as being rediculous. Who would dare to be so stupid to be anti- King in a Kingdom !  But Eastern community suffers from an attitude of deep servitude when it comes to Royalties and Rimpochees. Its like Lhotsampa caste system.  They react badly if so accused because they feel rejected. That I feel is the irony of social fabric in the East. The people feel rejected by their revered idols and thus the grievance arising from dejection. Not a revolt. Just a wail of fish beached on the hot sand.   

6. At one time, maybe,  the Lhotsampa population was more pro Nepal and India than Bhutan. But this has changed in the last 20 years. I think that is a very smart change of socio- political move. With Nepal or India, Lhotsampa population would be insignificant. I do not think that Nepalese of Nepal was even that hospitable in attitude towards Japha refugee camp residents.   But in Bhutan, the prominence of  now Lhotsampas ( no more the Nepalese of Southern Bhutan )  is guaranteed. Thus  they are for Bhutan but not necessarily traditional Bhutan.

Right now most people including media view election in Bhutan as competition between the East and West. But that is not correct. In democracy where majority vote means power, the Sharchops and Lhotsampas are in competition with minority Ngalongs as pivotal factor. And just as the outcome of Primary election would be determined by two largest ethnic groups, the Final round outcome will be decided by the minority Ngalongs. The West, however, is gradually undergoing demopraphic changes and with it naturally the socio- political outlook.

7. It is also natural for security forces and Ngalong population to vote against any percieved threat against Monarchy. The soldiers have taken the oath to protect the King and Country. And hard working Ngalongs who are more  individualistic natured than Sharchops and Lhotsampas retain deep faith in the Wangchuck Dynasty for ending war and strifes that had western Bhutan in turmoil for so many centuries. I put the stability of the nation as number one in my political priorities because a peaceful stable  environment permits self determination. No need of handouts.  And the King represents stability.  Knowing this fact, the Political Parties with Presidents from western Bhutan have tended to  conduct a campaign strategy as being more dedicated to the King than a Political Party headed by a leader beyond Pelela the traditional dividing line between West and East Bhutan. Such an election strategy is not only to buoy up supports from Ngalongs and security forces but also to dampen morales elsewhere into submission.

And this strategy finds welcome support among a section of influential elite hierachy who somehow wants to paint DPT and all supporters  in anti- royal colour. And perhaps this vindictiveness more than any other actual factors has sown seed of suspicion in  royal mind and caused fear or distrust amongst the communities especially  in the East. Most sad and unwarranted.

8. It is necessary to analyse the vote patterns in the national Elections. And understand  why the three regional zones of Bhutan differ so starkly in their preferences? The votes are not really Eastern region versus Southern plus Western regions. Both Pema Gatsel and Samdrup Jongkhar are in the Southern region.  The reality is the divide between  traditional beyond Pelela region versus  Lhotsampa populated Dzongkhags  aligned with the West. The demographic contrast is undeniable.

By dzongkhag wise number, it is 8 Dzongkhags versus 12 Dzongkhags. But in reality Dzongkhags like Haa and Gasa  are large in land size but thinly populated and comparable to few geogs beyond Pelela. So its 50 versus 50 demographically.

Does the votes mean that the Ngalongs and Lhotsampas think alike? Not at all. The call for Indian type democracy was made from the South. The Ngalongs have been quite contended with absolute monarchy system.    I think we Ngalongs simply count the pluses and minuses of a monarchy regime  and are contended with pluses in the majority. Democracy and wrest of power for power sake is not an Ngalong quest. Maybe basic human rights !

9. Let me explain further this percept about democracy and basic rights. For example, democracy as such is not my quest. I do not thirst for equal power. But I believe in basic human rights. A right to be individal with self identity. Thats why I find it appalling that a Bhutanese mother has to seek  royal prerogative to obtain citizenship for her own born child out of wedlock/ illegitimate  or baby is fathered by a non-Bhutanese. How very humilating a situation in an acclaimed gnh democratic Kingdom ! A baby coming out of a Bhutanese vagina or DNA proved Bhutanese father from foreign mother should have natural right to Bhutanese citizenship. Do not tell me thats upsurping royal prerogatives. I view it as an encroachment to basic right of a citizen.   

For very sound national reasons,  citizenship cases for foreigners, foreign spouses of Bhutanese or foreign child adopted by Bhutanese should be royal prerogative to prevent misuse of citizenship grant by other authorities. But here  the very discussion of the plight of such Bhutanese mothers and children are forbidden and penalised as in ECB banning a lady political candidate from campaigning and levying monetary fines.  It is such deep similar  hurts  of tearing the womb or life  apart that ultimately give rise to hard core feelings against any institution of authority. One has to understand the trials and traumas of the womb in nourishing forth a baby to feel the excruciating pain caused by such cruel laws of denials. We need to collectively  pray that His Majesty the King and the Government would  be humanely sensitive and compassionate to matters of Bhutanese womb and genes.

10. It seems diffiicult for Bhutanese authorities to fanthom what Bhutanese society is seeking. Since royal prescribed democracy was introduced in 2008,  successive governments have faithfully fulfilled their campaign pledges upon which they were elected and yet each such government has been rejected after one term. So there have to be some underlying fault lines unprepared to be discovered or addressed by Political Leaders and too sensitive to be publicly listed by the people in individual capacity.    
Certainly these cannot be quenched by a mandir here, promises of a church & grave yard place there and temples everywhere. For gods if necessary can be housed in the crevices of the heart but not so some other intangible indispensabilities related to life and living.   

11. I am by birth a loyal Haap and by patriotism a royalist. But I am definitely not anti- Sharchop or anti- Lhotsampa. It was I who first wrote about the need to reconcile after southern uprising. I had wanted the nation to heal from the wounds of Southern rebellion. I stand genuinely for Tsawa Sum ( The King, Country and People ).  And  even in the wildest of my foolhardy folly, I cannot discount the importance of the participations of fellow Bhutanese of the East and the South along side those of us  in the West in the, hereafter, well being of Druk Yul. The three regional zones and ethnics   together form the sturdy  tripod upon which the raven crown rests.  Bhutan does not even have a population of the size of the nearest  neighbouring Indian district  of Jalpaiguri which includes the vast Siluguri town. It is suicidal for the Bhutanese  nation to practise  divide rule over such a miniscule population. As Dr. Lotay Tshering now the hon'ble PM Elect  said, it should be possible to accord equal services as part of basic human need of a citizen. And I do not mean just health services. 

12. First and foremost the regional  divide and segregation in ethnic, religion, caste and gender need to be addressed.    Therefore, my humble call for a National Coalition Government System. Such an  inclusive government can represent all sections of the three regions and three main ethnics. And bring about trust, faith and equality  within the Kingdom. One People one King is sacred to one nation.

National Coalition Government System  is not a wild impractical political thought. Before 2013 election, when I mooted aloud the idea of voting from place of residence, it was considered good idea but impractical. But facilitation booth voting came about in this year general election.  Ofcourse my call was far more reaching. It is not difficult to enable some 300,000 voters to vote through EVM or traditional ballot box from their place of residence. 

The political Parties and His Majesty the King have a huge responsibility to make whole a divided nation. We are not a broken Kingdom.  Just need to bring down the percieved shades between the three regional zones and different ethnics & beliefs. And National Coalition Government System could achieve  this goal  if implemented with  sincere intent.

13. For the record, I do not think the recent publicity campaigns in form of press releases by DNT Party declaring itself to be a Party  of national representative intent can adequately soothe  the hurt or seal the divide. Nevertheless, such public declarations are very good appreciable  conciliatory gestures  which I value and am thankful for sake of Bhutan. But it can not substitude the intent and substantive assurances and goodwill a National Coalition Government  System can generate. Its a pity that political parties and institutions  are not as yet prepared to take one critical step in the direction of healing a wounded Kingdom. Someday in the near future, I pray that this good seed though seemingly thrown in the wilderness now, will germinate and blossom to beautify the Bhutanese society.

May our Druk Yul  shine in full glow by blessings of our Deities and accumulative goodwill of the people and benevolence of the King. Palden Drukpa Gyel Lo !    

Sunday, October 21, 2018

A plea and prayer for Coalition Government System.

This is a follow up to my blog of 14th October titled  " A way forward...". I had publicly  shared this idea well before the election of 18th October, 2018.  The timing was to  avoid any semblance of vice or prejudice for or against any Political Party.  

I feel that Political Parties including both DNT the elected Ruling Party and DPT the elected Opposition Party would be interested to bring about unity and harmony among the people of Bhutan.  And promote trust and faith between our constitutional King and any elected Government, hereafter.

During every General Election, there are inciteful talks, hate posts in various social media forums and allegations against  Political Parties  and their supporters of being  anti- King or pro- King. The institution of Monarchy and the people are put on trial every 5 years. This is very  sad and demeaning for both the King and the people.  These unhealthy attitudes and grievous  behaviours are in total  contrast  to the Buddhist Kingdom with a national  philosphy of GNH and the image of a reverred benevolent institution of Monarchy.    

Dr. Lotay Tshering the Prime  Minister Elect and his DNT Party  has this unique historic opportunity to set aright this socio-political malady. At this juncture, the DNT Party can  bring about an environment of affection and faith in the administration of the Kingdom by the elected representatives of the people in the form of the two political Parties under the active guidance and blessings of the King. In promoting a National Coalition Government System, the  DNT Party being already elected  the  Ruling Party without having to share power, would be making a great sacrifice for the unity and happiness of the Druk Yul Kingdom for timeless ages to come. It is a worthy sacrifice. Such a  Coalition Government System proposal spear headed by DNT Party could create a more positive and encompassing contributory legacy to the institution of Monarchy and the nation than by  any other national political or socio- economic scheme including Vision 2045 abdication.  

A Coalition Cabinet will dispel any distrust or  misunderstanding between His Majesty the King and Political Parties.   Such a government would  represent the common  will of all the people of our Kingdom. Thus there will be no disparity or contradiction  between regions and between different ethnics. A coalition government of such nature would truely reflect the essence of a constitutional monarchy democratic nation. This would  enable  good governance in unity and unison. As His Majesty the King had  wisely said that with internal unity, Bhutan can meet any external challenges. And this proposed National  Coalition Government System would gurantee internal unity.   

The gist of  proposed National Coalition Government System is submitted as follows:

1.  The President of the Party that secures the highest number of constituencies be appointed the Prime Minister with full fledged PM Office Secretariat including Chief of Staff. 

2.  The President of the Party with lessor number of Constituencies could  head a Ministry and in addition be appointed as Deputy Prime Minister. The Dy. PM office  would be staffed with additional  Private  Secretary and Personal Assistant backed by the usual  Ministrial bureaucracy staffing.

3. All the rest of Cabinet members to be selected  by His Majesty the King from amongst the elected MPs and their portfolios accordingly assigned.

4.The Cabinet berths including that of PM and Deputy PM to be as per the  ratio of the constituencies secured by each Political  Party  out of total 47 constituencies. Under the present scenario, it works out to be 64% for DNT and 36 for DPT which after rounding off translates to 7 Cabinet berths plus PM for DNT and 3 Cabinet berths plus Deputy PM for DPT.

5. In the the National Assembly,  there would be no ruling or opposition benches as such. The National Assembly would be a congress of elected MPs. And they could freely consider all issues and matters with utmost wisdom  and  unbridled by Party affiliations and the NA decisions could be arrived at through consensus or majority of votes.

A compact high level Committee chaired by honourable PM Elect ( the President of DNT) and members comprising of  Dratsang Venerable Dorji Lopen,  honourable  former and present Chief Justices of Supreme Court and honourable Presidents of DPT, PDP and BKP could study such a possibility. The seven member Committee representing their institutions and Agencies could unreservedly  consider  the pros and cons  of the possibility of a Coalition Government System hereafter with necessary amendment or additional article to the Constitution. And if the proposed system is  consented to by His Majesty the King, this can be submitted to the 3rd Parliament for formal review and ratification. .

It is only a humble submission of prayer and plea and hopefully many would support and endorse. The national vision of one people one nation and one King  must prevail in good health and faith. May our Deities bless equally the  three Tsawa Sum with Peace,  prosperity and contentment. Palden Drukpa Gyel Lo!   

 

 

Friday, October 19, 2018

This thing about vision 2045

Somewhere along the last decade of royal reign, I think His Majesty the King did indicate his intent to see through till the age of 65 on the dragon Throne. Now that final year maybe falling in 2045. Even so I cannot really see the profound reasons why a political party would want to plan a vision 2045.

The Wangchuck dynasty took birth in 1907 and even though democracy was introduced in 2008, the Dynasty's continuous reign is constitutionally enshrined. Therefore, it is not going to end with the reign of the 5th Wangchuck King. It will continue with following generations of Wangchuck dynasty line.

The reign of each King would leave particular footprints. But in a continuous line, I feel all endeavours and accomplishments of a particular reign would be in comformity with overall Wangchuck Dynasty vision for the nation. As such I personally do not see one national vision ending with one reign and a fresh national dream starting with a new reign. Unless ofcourse a different kind of national path is being envisaged from 2045 and thus Vison 2045. 

I was uncomfortable with this agenda of DNT Party when first stated during Party Presidential debate at the onset of Primary election. And I am still confounded by DNT press release upon being elected the governing Political Party in regards to 2045 vision. But ofcourse the future of a nation is inscrutable abd therefore partly imaginery.  However, the  reality at present is that DNT the Political Party has been given the mandate to set its course for the nation.

So welcome Vision 2045 for whatever it is destined to achieve. Afterall for me  the ways of Pelden Drukpai Deities are more a matter of faith  than actual comprehension. I have learned to stride in faithful optimism with every change in life major or minor. Life is a gift of womb and so is the nation I am fortunately born in by the  grace of the Triple Gem. 

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Democratic fears versus realities.

I had pointed out possible friction in national administration during the consulting stage of the  drafting of  the constitution of Bhutan. But had no inkling of the tug of war kind of administrative confrontations that took place after 2008 until Lyonpo Sonam Kinga shared the excerpts from his forthcoming book.  I know he was fried over for sharing it on eve of Primary Election. I have no way of confirming his point of views but I give due cognisance to his former position as Deputy and then as Chairperson of National Council. He has to know far more than I a man on the street.  As such, I thank him at least for exposing some aspects that are not in public domain.

For example as a man on the street, I had no idea about the tussle over REC ( Royal Education Council ) pointed out by the former NC Chairperson.  In fact in my writeup,  I had opposed the appointment of a foreigner to head the REC without ever suspecting that REC itself was a contentious political issue at that time. My position was purely based on the fact that Bhutanese should be incharge of Bhutanese National Agencies. I did not suspect that the foreigner was a royal appointee. After all " royal " is a common title choice in the Kingdom as in Royal Audit Authority or Royal Thimphu College. And I was most relieved and happy when a Bhutanese was put in charge of REC. 

Today I do not look at any election local or national taking place within our Country as contest between pro-royal forces and anti- royal forces nor as any outcome as being pro or anti India or China. As an interested stakeholding common Bhutanese citizen, I stick to substance of an issue and avoid divisive or destructive politics. I am guilty of " prejudiced " voting for PDP in the Primary because PM TT is from Haa.  But I tried my best to be apolitical in my writeups and directed all thoughts to the pros and cons of an issue. And  I have attempted to counter unhealthy forces out to disrupt national unity or seemingly attacks on the Reign by political wings whether for short term political gains or long term socio-political impact.

As highlighted in the REC case,  we who are out and away from the power arena do not understand nor are aware of power dynamics at the centre. But thats a blessing in disguise. It allows us to be our true selves and therefore the goodness in not being factors of divisiveness.  We can foster unity by uphold trust in the Reign of our King and strengthening any weakness.

Sunday, October 14, 2018

A way forward for Bhutanese Political System free of nuances of a contest between King's anointed Political Parties versus other Political Party entities.

Let me approach this subject by introducing the influence of foreign forces into Bhutanese General Election.

Today I came across in fb an article dated  13th October, 2018 in Bhutan News Service authored by RP Subba now settled in America. He is described as a Political analyst of Bhutan Politics and a columnist at Bhutan News Service which is a News Outlet set up by anti- Bhutan  establishment outside Bhutan.

Placed below is a paragraph which is part of a lengthy article by RP Subba dealing with General Election of Bhutan. Quite enlightening I should add.

Quote " Diaspora Connection.
The existence of a nearly hundred thousand strong Bhutanese diaspora is a natural turf which provides a natural ground for social interaction among the Bhutanese community far and wide. They are talking and discussing elections with their friends and relatives in Bhutan. The soft power that transpires in these interactions, though not strategically planned, can exert significant influence, which can swerve voter choices in an election season. The power of social dynamics probably cannot be measured or surveyed but they cannot be dismissed either. Political counsel received from good folks living in the diaspora can penetrate the ballot box in Bhutan, and the impact can be really large. A southern Bhutanese living in the diaspora believes that the democracy which is introduced in Bhutan is born of the struggle and sacrifices he has made. The ‘ownership’ of an enterprise called ‘Bhutanese democracy’ is important to him, and he sees it happening when he participates in these elections, though indirectly and emotionally. Therefore, the need for him to establish a relationship with the politics of the motherland becomes a social need. It is only through such connections and participation that he can speak to his past identity and history."  Unquote.

The writer goes on to say that DNT is a Party which has guranteed the use of Nepali as an official language in Bhutan  and also to introduce a Nepali language BBS TV channel. And coupled with other pledges, it is a grassroot Party. And DPT as well as PDP are termed  Parties of the elites because both were started by two personalities  who were born " with golden spoons in their mouth".  RP Subba believes that both DPT and PDP are political Parties which believe in ruling from top to bottom ( monarchial style I think ). And he determines DNT as a Party  ruling from bottom to top ( socialist style I think ).

I personally do not see any such differences in being monarchial or socialist among the Bhutanese political Parties. And there is  no chance of nepali the main language  of the nation of Nepal becoming an official language in the Kibgdom of Bhutan. The majority of Bhutanese are for preserving and promoting distinctive Bhutanese national culture and tradition. In addition to Dzongkha, English is adopted as another official language only  because of its international application.   

RP Subba contends that both 2008 and 2013 election results were dictated by the influence of anti- nationals ( diaspora as per his term) living abroad through the Lhotsampa population in South Bhutan. And suggests that likewise 2018 result will be determined by Lhotsampa votes for DNT.

We are aware that Bhutanese social media is full of fake account holders. And they have attacked all Parties and have not even spared the Monarchy. These come in all shapes in fb posts from fake Bhutanese women and men profiles and in recorded video clips. The objective is to create suspicion and disharmony among the two ethnic races of Bhutan those in the East and that of the West. The ultimate goal seems to be vengeance for the illegal immigrants' unsuccessful uprising of 1989- 1990 in Southern Bhutan.

Whether voters are from the East, West or South of Bhutan, we all must be attentive to disrupting forces from the outside be these comprise of  anti- national kind whose main goal is to topple the Monarchy or that of India and China who think they have a stake in Bhutanese election outcome and policy direction.

The present political scenario provides fertile grounds for anti- Bhutan players. I think Bhutan would be well advised to correct the present constitutional democracy system. We need an outside  intervention proof political administrative  system.

The two political parties DNT and DPT contesting in the General Election  are Bhutanese Political Parties and their respective 47 constituency candidates are Bhutanese just like any of us. A lot of the candidates and their families are even related.  How could we  so recklessly and blindly determine that they, their families and supporters are either for or against the King?  Our distrust and suspicion springs from seeds of foreign intervention. We at the grassroot, at intellectual mid level and at the top leadership are subtly  being converted into gullible victims of politics of disharmony and disruption within our own Kingdom. This disastrous trend must be arrested before we drown in self fear and hate

Bhutan is only a small pool. There is no place for too many big fish to swim. Not even a popular Prime Minister and a deeply reverred  constitutional hereditary King. The political arena is just not wide enough to sufficiently accomodate two prominent power houses.  When two sumo giants are put in a small circle,  there will be bumps and frictions. Do not blame the wrestlers but realise that the smallness of the circle restricts gentle manoeuvres.    

Therefore, lets be practical. We need the institution of Monarchy or else our Political Parties may barter our sovereignty for freebee funds  from India or China. So first and foremost, we must strengthen the institution of Monarchy whilst honouring the will of the voters. Lets choose a midddle path governance system by amalgamating the system adopted in 1998 by the 4th King  and the democratic Party governance system introduced in 2008.

After this General Election, the Parliament must empower His Majesty the King to select the cabinet minister candidates from amongst the elected MPs. Also it must be mandatory to regionally balance the cabinet appointees.      It should be also mandatory to appoint the President of the Political Party with largest number of MPs as the Prime Minister and grant the first choice of the Ministry to the President of minority Political Party with additional deputy Prime Minister designation. And divide Ministrial berths in proportion to the MP strength of the two Parties.

In other words, adopt a coalition government system with more say by the King in cabinet formation as in identifying balance ministers and their portfolios. And in the Parliament, do away with the present distinct system of Ruling Party and Opposition Party. Seating in the Parliament should be determined by drawing lots except for cabinet rank MPs in the front row. .

Let MPs debate and decide freely on any issues presented to the National Assembly by the Cabinet.  Majority voice or vote will be the deciding factor. The proposals of the Cabinet will be tampered by the wisdom of MPs in the National Assembly which will be further guided by the apolitical National Council. And where necessary the Joint houses forming the Parliament presided over by the King instead of the Speaker can take the call. That procedure also saves the Royal Assent formality.   

Such a system will truly represent the interest of the nation rather than that of Political Parties. The Monarchy institution will not feel challenged by a people elected Political Party or a Cabinet selected by a Prime Minister. Both the Cabinet and the King must be binded in spirit and goal to serve the people and Druk Yul.

The prevailing tuck of war kind of  administration of the nation between the King and elected government and further fuelled by outside forces if not checked now  will destroy the Tsawa Sum in the near future. The Monarchy will not have a throne to call its own seat and we the Bhutanese  people will not have a sovereign nation to call our own home. Both could end up possessing only semblance of what are rightfully  and wholly ours.

The one people , one nation and one King inspirational call  is becoming a false flag of hope under the present political scenario. Instead of the  Bhutanese People and the Bhutanese King calling the shots, we are becoming tools of other forces in managing our national affairs. Our political Parties are being transformed into conduits of power channel for anti- national forces and big neighbours who presume that Bhutan is their priviledged  turf to play around.

I hope and pray that His Majesty the King and the whole honourable institution of Monarchy, the Dratsang, the 4 Political Parties and the People of all regions and races of Bhutan will take a precious step to consider and formulate a system of national administration that reassures the King and his heirs the  hereditary position and duties of the Wangchuck Dynasty. And at the same time enable the King, the royal subjects and the royal Bhutan Political Parties to join forces  together to serve in unity and in unision for accommplishing the national goals of  prosperity,  peace and sovereign dignity of the Kingdom of Bhutan.  Palden Drukpa Gyel Lo!           

 

Saturday, October 13, 2018

Uneasy lies the Saudi crown.

President Trump of America recently told his countrymen that if  Saudi Arabia does not  cough up cash to foot American military security  bills then the Saudi  King cannot reign.    He claims to have phoned the Saudi King to cough up the cash or he will lose his throne in 2 weeks time.

Saudi Arabia did not refute the American President's assertion that  the Saudi King would  lose  his throne in 2 weeks time if America lifted the shield of protection over the Saudi throne. Uneasy lies the Saudi  King whose reign is propped up by a foreign force. Just too bad.

So many such propped up Leaders  have been betrayed likewise. Used throughly and then thrown like a "  dead rat ". A phrase coined to describe the ousting of His Imperial Majesty the Shah of Iran by America when the going got too hot to handle in Iran. And years later,  President Marcos of Phillipine was another leader who got flown out rather  unceremniously by American Army. Next could be Saudi King and Family.

All these events were possible because those leaders relied more on outside prop for their national position. They should have sought the support of their own citizens. At the least if the end did come like the murdered Royal Family of Nepal, the people would have shed tears and  accorded a befitting royal farewell. And national history would laud them as heroes who sacrificed their lives for the Country.   

To conclude the sad Saudi tale, the Kingdom is again under limelight about the horrible affair with Khasoggi's probable murder. Perhaps too many sins accumulated in bullying small dependent neighbouring nations. 

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Why does DNT deny that in the last 55 years people have benefited from GNH development Plans?

" GNH has not reached rural population"
declares DNT candidate in Bumthang debate this evening. Lying is an incorrigible habit and it seeps into core character of a person.

GNH is not intangible. It is not abstract. It is there for all to see if you are not in the habit of denying and lying. Do not get into  the habit of denying the Tsawa Sum in every word you utter. How did a rural boy reach the stage of vying for MP seat if GNH is yet to reach rural Bhutan?  

GNH comes in the form of schools that provide education to children of all Bhutanese whether rich or poor.

GNH comes in the form of hospitals and BHUs in all Dzongkhags and Geogs that service the health of all Bhutanese. 

GNH comes in safe drinking water, motor roads to all geogs and hundreds of villages. In improved crop seeds, introduction of cash crops and development of markets for products. Promotion of cottage and handicraft industries and trade. The King who gifted the development philosphy of GNH, had rural population at the core of his vision. 

GNH comes in electricity in all village homes and at subsidised rate too. In mobile phones that connect all to each other both farmers and urbanites, rich or poor. 

GNH comes in power tillers that have replaced bullocks and farm works done in few days that used to take weeks. In Boleros that scoop up farm products and reach to markets for better prices.

GNH come in election of local government
by the local population. GNH comes in the form of national government elected by the people of the nation. Whether in rural or urban, you have just one vote and same right. Thus please do not deny the absolute reach of GNH all over Bhutan. Leadership is not about who tells the most convincing lies. 

GNH in practical forms of  facilities and services  are prevailing in every corner of the Kingdom and at the service and benefit of all villagers and urbanites alike.

GNH is not just a royal vision like a " castle built in the air ". It has been implemented on the ground. And today all Bhutanese enjoy peace and properity that was never imagined when the 1st 5 year plan was developed. GNH has been brought into lives of every Bhutanese in the most tangible and transparent deeds as desired and planned by the Kings of Bhutan.

Yes we still have much to do but we need to do for all.  Not only for poor or just for rich. But please recognise and give credit for what have been achieved so far. 

And yet DNT candidate declares that GNH has not reached rural communities. Perhaps the DNT candidate has been living in another country  such as Sub Sahara under a Zulu Chief. He certainly is not talking truthfully about Bhutan. 

It is the gift of GNH that has enabled  this same DNT candidate of Bumthang Tang  to receive both  education and professional employment opportunities.  And made it possible for him  to stand before the nation on BBS TV today in equal opportunity with the Leader of Opposition Party. But lying to the whole nation first in a dramatised taped  video with ficticious audience inserted about his fabricated BBS laments and second today lying  that GNH has not reached rural Bhutan is his own manufactured character. Nothing to do with GNH wisdom and gift.