PC: Kuensel (April 01, 2023)
With the election for the fourth National Council (NC)
scheduled on April 20, the public debate telecasted live every evening are
setting the national discourse these days.
Democracy is 15 years old in Bhutan with major reforms
taking place under three parliamentary governments.
Voters over the years are well aware of the roles
and responsibilities that an aspiring candidate must uphold.
PC: Kuensel (April 01, 2023)
Primarily,
the National Council shall
ensure that the Government safeguards the interests of the nation and fulfills
the aspirations of the people through public review of policies and issues,
Bills and other legislation, and scrutiny of State functions.
It is the house
of review on matters affecting the security and sovereignty of the country and the
interests of the nation and the people, according to the National Council Act of Bhutan
2008.
With increasing public awareness on election systems
in Bhutan, the citizens are well-aware of making the right choice.
People took part in damngoi zomdu and chose eligible
candidates to contest at the dzongkhag level, and it is the responsibility of
every eligible Bhutanese to vote. Now that public debates and common forums
are in process, making a realistic pledge is a must.
The candidates should not mislead the voters with fake
promises that they cannot fulfill.
PC: Google
Understanding the situation of the country with huge
public debt and a need for a vibrant democracy, Bhutan needs representatives who
will fulfill the needs of the public with transparency and accountability.
Every dzongkhag needs a representative who will delve
into the issues faced by the public and frame policies that are a resolution to
their problems rather than a burden to society.