July 17: The Draft Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan will be signed on Friday, July 18. A news release from the office of the Prime Minister, says the Constitution will be signed by His Majesty the King and other designated representatives of the people in the Kuenrey of the Tashichhodzong.

The four Lopens of the Zhung Dratshang and members of the royal family will also grace the signing. The Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader, the Chairperson of the National Council, cabinet ministers, members of the parliament, eminent citizens, representatives of the armed forces and members of the diplomatic community will also attend the ceremony.

The Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee Lyonpo Sonam Tobgye said the Constitution will be placed on the altar of Mahakala in the Goenkhang today. On Friday the Constitution will be taken from the Goenkhang into the Kuenrey.

Lyonpo Sonam Tobgye said the historic day is not a celebration but a solemn occasion to invoke and offer prayers for the peace and prosperity of Bhutan.

He said the occasion is an achievement of the wishes of our monarchs and aspiration of the Bhutanese people.

The Chairman of the Drafting Committee said the procedure for the signing will be kept as close as possible to the historic signing of the Genja in Punakha, over 100 years ago in 1907.

The signed Constitution will be open for public viewing after the signing.

Three sacred Thongdroels will also be unfurled at Tashichhodzong for the benefit of public on the day. The ceremony will be broadcast live on BBS.

Friday, July 18 is being declared a nationwide holiday.