The Druk National Congress (DNC) observed the party’s 21st foundation day in Kathmandu on June 16.
One minute silence was observed at the foundation day event to mourn the victims of recent earthquakes in Nepal.
“Butter lamps were lit in the memory of the earthquake victims. The party expressed its heartfelt condolence to the government and the people of Nepal, at the terrible loss of life,” Kesang Lhendup, DNC president, said in a statement.
On the occasion, Lhendup is learnt to have urged the political parties inside Bhutan and democrats to show more courage and resolve in consolidating the democratic gains thus far, and further assert the sovereign rights of people by engaging in legal campaign and political activism.
“The irony of Bhutanese ‘democracy’ is that pioneers and distinguish forebears of the democratic struggle were legally denied democratic rights, and excluded from participation in the political process,” added he. “The existence of political parties in exile is testimony to the level of political and civil freedoms in Bhutan.”
The party, which was founded on June 16, 1994 by late RK Dorji with the support from Bhutanese both inside and outside Bhutan, also demanded unconditional released on all political prisoners from Bhutan’s jails.
An official party Facebook page was also unveiled on the occasion
