December 11: In a Royal Kasho to the Chief Election Commissioner, His Majesty the King has suggested that the terms of the incumbent Gups be extended until the Election Commission completes the delimitation process and until relevant acts under which the elections are to be held have been revised in accordance with the constitution.

At such time, the Election Commission of Bhutan may call and hold elections in keeping with the Constitution and all relevant laws under it.

His Majesty has expressed that this action by the ECB would take into account the immediate needs of local governance as well as the long-term interests of the People and Nation, and of Democracy.

The Royal Kasho was issued after the National Council submitted a report which addressed concerns regarding the recently announced Gup elections.

His Majesty said the recently announced Gup elections to be held as per acts that have been repealed and which in fundamental ways are contrary to the provisions of the Constitution, will not draw any legitimacy even as an interim measure.

Moreover, the cost of conducting new elections again after a period of a few months will cause significant financial burden to the exchequer and enormous inconvenience to the general public and the bureaucracy.