Three copies were signed by King and members of Parliament: one in Dzongkha, one in English, one in gold
I’ve just been asked if Bhutan’s constitution, signed in 2008 after the seating of its first elected Parliament, contains a promise of happiness.
The answer is yes: four times.
In the preamble: “…enhance the unity, happiness and well-being of the people for all time”
In Article 9: “The State shall strive to promote those conditions that will enable the pursuit of Gross National Happiness.”
Inside the hall of the Thimphu dzong, where the copies were placed on view for the public
In Article 20: “The Government shall protect and strengthen the sovereignty of the Kingdom, provide good governance, and ensure peace, security, well-being and happiness of the people.”
And in the last line of the national anthem:
“May the sun of peace and happiness shine over all people”
Everyone who came to see the newly-signed constitution was given a copy, and a little bottle of juice.
Now what about that rupee crisis!
