5 April, 2008 - In a most dignified close to months of political activity marked often by acrimonious debate and dispute, members of Bhutan’s new parliament received an Audience with His Majesty the King at the garden palace, Lingkana, yesterday.
As His Majesty spoke with the parliamentarians and participated in archery and khuru games with them, the signs of a future of harmony and unity appeared.
Many parliamentarians said that the day was representative of Bhutan’s transition to a constitutional democracy. “With so much warmth and kindness, His Majesty has welcomed us. This is a matter of great pride and inspiration for us. Some of us have suddenly found ourselves thrust on to the national scene in a matter of a few months. It is overwhelming but His Majesty’s kind words and reassurance have given us added confidence and it is of great comfort to know that our King will always be there to guide us as we make our way in a new democracy.”
Others said that the gathering was symbolic of the continuity of Monarchy in Bhutan as democracy sets in. “It symbolizes the success of democracy in Bhutan under the guidance and wisdom of our Kings,” said the MP elect from Samtse. “It also highlights a profoundly smooth transition.”
Many said that such a close bond between a King and his people was unique and does not exist anywhere else. “Today I approached His Majesty as a new politician and the bond was the same. It is so true what His Majesty said at the National Day in 2007, “In the womb of a strong and peaceful monarchy, we have begun to nurture the hopes of a vibrant democracy…” said a new member of Parliament from Trashigang.
“There is no difference between candidates once we are in the Parliament,” said National Assembly member elect Karma Lhamo. “We share the same vision, to serve our King, People, and Country.”
Members elect of the National Council and the National Assembly gathered together for the first time and mingled freely with each other and with senior officials of the caretaker government, in the presence of His Majesty the King, and spoke of a nation continuing on its path to success and happiness. A nation unchanged in her character and in her priorities to fulfill the aspirations of her people. A new democracy uniquely championed by a young King. “Our future is bright,” said the new politicians.
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