December 18: In a dramatic departure from past National Day celebrations His Majesty surprised the thousands of people in Changlimethang and those gathered for celebrations in dzongkhags around the country. Addressing the nation, His Majesty said on this auspicious day, let us offer our deep gratitude to each and every citizen, past and present, for it is the silent and unseen but constant love, loyalty and labour of our people that has built our special nation.

His Majesty said we must salute and safeguard such qualities for they are unique to Bhutan in this rapidly changing world. In doing so we must recognize those among us whose service have rendered exceptional benefit to the people and country.

His Majesty said there is no better occasion to do so than on National Day for nation-building is founded on the strength and commitment of the people. His Majesty said that while awards went to individuals, it did not mean that the rest had not served their country.

He said that in fact the people of Bhutan are united in our love for our country and such awards were meant precisely to preserve this unique strength of Bhutan.

Dasho Kunzang Wangdi

His Majesty granted the Druk Thuksey to Dasho Kunzang Wangdi, Chief Election Commissioner for his personal integrity and hard work and for the combined effort of the officials of the Election Commission of Bhutan, various government agencies, local government and the armed forces in preparing for and conducting successful general elections at the start of democracy.” His Majesty said.

Aum Neten Zangmo

Aum Neten Zangmo, Chairperson, Anti-Corruption Commission was granted the Druk Thuksey for carrying out her duties as head of the Anti-Corruption Commission without fear or favour. His Majesty said that at this phase in the growth of democracy, the ACC must work to prevent the spread of one of the biggest threats to Bhutan’s success. His Majesty pledged his own wholehearted support to the ACC. His Majesty also granted Neten Zangmo the red scarf in recognition of her efforts and the importance of her work ahead.

Dasho Pema Wangchuk

His Majesty then awarded Dasho Pema Wangchuk, Secretary for International Boundaries the Druk Thuksey for long, consistent and fruitful service during the reign of two Kings with sincerity, dedication and humility.

Dasho Pema Wangchen

The final recipient of the Druk Thuksey was Dasho Pema Wangchen, Secretary to the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. His Majesty commended the commitment and dedication with which Dasho Pema Wangchen served a special King as he led the nation over 34 years. His Majesty told the people that Pema Wangchen had even during periods of poor health and physical frailty carried out his duties with dedication.

Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley

His Majesty then awarded the Prime Minister Lyonchen Jigmi Y. Thinley and Chief Justice Lyonpo Sonam Tobgye Druk Wangyal awards for exceptional service.

“Jigmi Thinley and Sonam Tobgye, throughout their careers have been motivated by service to the nation regardless of what responsibilities they held. They have excelled in carrying out their duties in each position and their devotion to the country is exemplary. Even today, under a new democratic system they continue to serve the nation in important positions that they have earned through their own merit,” His Majesty said.

Chief Justice Lyonpo Sonam Tobgye

At the conclusion of the Royal Address His Majesty offered his prayers for the long life of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the peace, happiness and well-being of Bhutan.