July 8: Reviewing the Election Bill the members of the National Council decided to provide state funding to local government elections yesterday.

It was earlier decided in the National Assembly that local government elections will not be allowed to campaign either at their own cost or with funds from the government. However, the National Council yesterday decided that campaigning should be allowed for local government elections with state funding.

The National Council member from Zhemgang Pema Lhamo said it is equally important for local government candidates to campaign. She said funds should be given for local government elections. She was supported by several other members.

Continuing discussion on the bill, members deliberated on the issue of allocating equitable time in the media.

National Council member from Lhuentse, Rinzin said if the local government could help arrange the campaign meetings for the National Council candidates. He said while the political parties have party workers and supporters to help make arrangements for the National Assembly candidates, the National Council candidates have nobody to help them. His submission was supported by the National Council member from Paro Ugyen Tshering and the National Council member from Trongsa Dr. Jagar Dorji.

On this, the Election Commissioner Chogyal Dago Rigdzin said the commission is working to address such problems.