We elected our local government leaders. Our second local government elections were a success, give or take a few glitches here and there. And now the LGs in the 20 dzongkhags are taking real shape with election of chairman among others.

This is how our Constitution spells the functioning of the LG offices within the period of five-year term. At the heart of the transition lies smooth and timely completion of planned development activities. Our first LG left us with many lessons. We ought not to make the same mistakes again.

Some of the first LGs failed to meet by the first month after elections as required by the Constitution and, so, problems related to it had to be confronted when the LGs had to be dissolved for new elections after five years. LG leaders in about 74 gewogs had to resign without benefits. It left many LG leader aggrieved.

That our LGs have started to begin the work of the office within a month after elections is, therefore, a good beginning. We made a mistake with the firßst LG, but it will not happen again. At least now we stand assured that development works in the dzongkhags, gewogs and villages will continue without any interruption.

If LGs cannot function because of some clarity issues, it is the people, the electorate, who will be effected the most. Our governments, whatever the level, should be efficient. Otherwise, the people might begin to question democracy and the very values that we employ to govern our society.

At the heart of successful democracy lies the success of the local governments because they are the institutions closest to the people and their needs. That is why His Majesty The King reminded the newly elected LG leaders of the important responsibilities that they have to shoulder.

We understand that development should start from the grassroots, in the far-off corners of the country from the blazing and brimming capital. That’s why the way our LG leaders are beginning to prepare for the office is auspicious. It is setting new precedent.