The Fifth Session of Bhutan’s Fourth Parliament came to a close yesterday in the presence of His Majesty The King, marking the end of a month-long legislative period that saw the passage of major laws, approval of the national budget, and discussions on key national priorities.
The closing ceremony was attended by members of the Royal Family, senior government officials, parliamentarians, and representatives from international organisations. Lawmakers used the occasion to express their appreciation for His Majesty’s leadership and his continued efforts toward safeguarding the nation’s peace, stability, and development.
Addressing the gathering, the Speaker highlighted several royal initiatives that are shaping Bhutan’s future, with particular emphasis on the Gyalsung programme. He described the national service initiative as a transformative platform that is equipping young Bhutanese with discipline, skills, and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
According to the Speaker, participants of the programme have reported significant personal growth and increased confidence, crediting the initiative for helping them achieve goals they had once considered beyond their reach. He noted that the success of the programme reflects His Majesty’s long-term vision for empowering the country’s youth.
The Speaker also offered prayers for the successful realization of two major royal initiatives—the construction of 108 Jangchub Chorten and the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City. He expressed hope that the sacred monuments would stand as lasting symbols of Buddhist values and serve future generations while contributing to Bhutan’s spiritual and social well-being.
During the session, Parliament approved several important pieces of legislation, including the Goods and Services (Amendment) Bill 2026, the Renewable Energy Exemption Tax Bill of Bhutan 2026, and the Livestock Bill of Bhutan 2025.
Members also endorsed the government’s proposed budget of Nu 153.3 billion for the 2026–27 fiscal year, setting the financial framework for national development activities in the coming year.
Not all legislative proposals advanced during the session. Parliament decided to defer consideration of the Insolvency Bill of Bhutan 2026 and the Rehabilitation Bill of Bhutan 2026 for further review in a future sitting.
Meanwhile, differences remained between the National Assembly and the National Council on certain provisions of the Cooperatives and Farmer Groups Bill of Bhutan 2025, as well as proposed changes to Bhutan’s reservations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The unresolved issues will be revisited during the next joint sitting of Parliament.
The joint sitting also examined the Annual Audit Report for 2024–25 and reviewed findings contained in the Public Accounts Committee’s Performance Audit Report, reinforcing Parliament’s oversight role in governance and public accountability.
The session featured the Prime Minister’s annual State of the Nation Report, alongside question-and-answer sessions that allowed lawmakers to seek clarifications from the government on a range of national issues.
The parliamentary session concluded with the offering of Tashi Moenlam in honour of His Majesty The King, bringing the proceedings to a ceremonial close.
