Bhutan’s National Council Pursues Comprehensive Legal Reforms for GMC Alignment

The National Council of Bhutan is planning major legal reforms to align national laws with the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative. Key discussions followed the Royal Address on the 117th National Day, focusing on essential areas like meritocracy and economic enhancement. NC has been tasked with reviewing and amending existing laws and adopting new ones, ensuring compatibility with those in GMC.

The National Council (NC) of Bhutan is undertaking significant legal reforms to establish effective laws and regulations in alignment with the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) initiative. During a meeting on February 13, NC members discussed actions required to fulfill the Royal Address delivered on the 117th National Day, which focused on meritocracy, democracy, entrepreneurial bureaucracy, economic enhancement laws, and empowering the population.

His Majesty the King emphasized the vital role of laws in maintaining order, security, and social harmony. He also noted that many countries suffer from an excess of laws, inadequate public understanding, and ineffective enforcement, which may hinder innovation and burden citizens.

According to Dago Tsheringla, the NC Spokesperson and Deputy Chairperson, the council is committed to aligning its efforts with the overarching national vision. “NC did a recapitulation exercise on His Majesty’s address to the nation related to laws on 117th National Day,” stated Tsheringla, emphasizing the importance of aligning legal frameworks with Ghana’s vision.

Dago Tsheringla indicated that the NC will focus on consolidating, amending, and creating laws as needed to ensure that GMC’s integration with Bhutan’s legal systems occurs smoothly over the next decade. As part of preparing for the upcoming summer session, NC committees have been tasked with identifying which laws require amendment or consolidation.

Members are expected to prepare detailed presentations to the House in April, including their research findings and objectives to prioritize the necessary legal reforms. Comprehensive discussions will also be held with relevant organizations and agencies to ensure that national laws align with the GMC.

On February 13, NC members reviewed the laws adopted by GMC, including 18 Singaporean laws and 10 Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Financial Services Regulations. These laws govern vital areas such as company incorporation, employment, taxation, and financial services.

Key legislation from Singapore incorporated into GMC encompasses acts related to companies, contracts, electronic transactions, and taxation. Additionally, the adopted ADGM regulations focus on financial markets and anti-money laundering protocols, among others.

Dago Tsheringla noted an important task for the NC will be to examine the compatibility of existing Bhutanese laws with those implemented in the GMC, highlighting that both frameworks encompass similar statutes. A comparative analysis of acts such as the Companies Act and Employment Act will be pivotal for successful integration.

The National Council of Bhutan is proceeding with extensive legal reforms aimed at aligning the country’s laws with the requirements of the Gelephu Mindfulness City. Emphasizing the foundational role of law in societal order and innovation, the council will identify necessary amendments while ensuring legislative compatibility. The upcoming April session will focus on the prioritization of changes, aligning legal frameworks for better governance and societal benefit.

Original Source: asianews.network