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Medals and a tug-of-war

Smiling broadly, His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck awarded Aum Neten Zangmo, chairperson of the Anti Corruption Commission, the prestigious Druk Thuksey medal, praising her work and integrity.

He told the crowd of thousands at the Changlimethang stadium that she deserved the medal 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.

“To be decorated with honour in such a special year was a pleasant surprise,” said Aum Neten. “This medal is for all the anti corruption champions and it sends an immediate message to everybody that corruption cannot be tolerated and must be fought. It imposes greater responsibility to the institution and to the people of the institution so the celebration will be in terms of more hard work.”

The medal comes the same week as news that the ACC will take the Cabinet to the Supreme Court over their justification of the appointment of the new CEO of Bhutan Post. She said the ACC should take a stand because there are greater expectations now with inspiration and encouragement coming from the King himself.

Three others also received the Druk Thuksey. His Majesty granted the medal to Dasho Kunzang Wangdi, the Chief Election Commissioner, for “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 then awarded Dasho Pema Wangchuk, the International Boundaries Secretary, the Druk Thuksey for “long, consistent and fruitful service during the reign of two kings with sincerity, dedication and humility.”

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 you have served a special King as he led the nation over 34 years.” His Majesty told the people that Dasho Pema Wangchen had carried out his duties with dedication even during periods of poor health and physical frailty.

Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigme Yoezer Thinley and Chief Justice Sonam Tobgye were given Druk Wangyel medals, one of the most prestigious civilian awards, for their service to the people and the country.

His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo Jigme Singye Wangchuck, Their Majesties the Queen Mothers, and members of the royal family attended the celebrations. The celebrations started with a grand Chipdrel ceremony.

The sound of dhungs, cymbals and drums resonated throughout the stadium. His Majesty the King entered led by a life size statue of First King Ugyen Wangchuck seated on a throne.

His Majesty addressed thousands of people saying these times were auspicious for Bhutan because, apart from the centenary celebration, this was also the first year of democracy and the year of His coronation. He reminded people of their responsibilities irrespective of their professions. He congratulated the people on 100 years of monarchy and thanked them for making it possible.

As part of the celebrations there were dances performed by the Royal Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA), Khuju Luyang, Lhayi Lugar, Tashi Nyencha and Civil Servants, Bhutan Broadcasting Service, dancers from Sarpang, and Kelzang and group.

The Ministry of Education won the tug of war finals against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. There had been eight teams participating in the event.

There was also a tug of war played between the two Kings. Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck participated in the game. The guests were kept entertained or given chances to participate.

Women played musical chairs and both men and women played stick in the bottle, a game that requires a partner.

The Fourth Druk Gyalpo visited all the 26 tents in the field and conversed with the people. Later on, the Fifth Druk Gyalpo also made a round of all the tents, talked with people and gave autographs to children.

To end the celebration, people formed three circles and danced the customary Tashi Labey. Tashi Dema, a guest at the celebrations, said, “I can’t dance but I participated because this Tashi Labey is not just a dance. It marks the end of 100 years of monarchy under the rule of the Wangchuck dynasty.”

By Eshori Gurung

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