July 1: The 1st sitting of the 3rd session of the National Council began today. In his inaugural address the chairperson, Namgye Penjore, expressed gratitude and felicitations to His Majesty the King for touring remote villages to grant land Kidu to the landless and poor people.

On behalf of the National Council, the Chairperson also congratulated Lyonchhen Jigmi Thinley and his government and extended the full support of the National Council. 

Following the inaugural address the National Council members deliberated on the Prime Minister’s Annual Report.

The members commended the Prime Minister and his government. They said many other problems like lack of funds and the global financial crisis, the government still did a remarkable job.

They expressed gratitude to the government enhancing the traditional ties of friendship with India and extending immediate help to the recent flood victims.

However, there were also dissenting voices. Most of the members said the government has a feeling that the National Council is working against the decisions of the government. They said this is not true.

According to Kuenlay Tshering, both houses should work together to promote democracy. He also said some of the decisions taken by the government are unconstitutional.

Another National Council member, Karma Yezer Raydi, also expressed similar views. He said if this continues there are chances that it might lead to autocracy and weaken the very essence of democracy.

On the Constitutional Development Grant, Tashi Wangmo, said it is unconstitutional. She said the experiences in other countries are not very positive.

The National Council will resume on Friday.