Lhakpa Quendren

Gelephu—Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering resigned as President of Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT), bringing an end to his 11-year political career, which included five years as Prime Minister.

The party announced his resignation yesterday, following his submission of resignation letter on December 17, 2024.

His resignation is viewed as a decision to embrace greater responsibilities after his appointment as Governor of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) in October last year.

In his resignation letter, Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering emphasised that Bhutan is experiencing significant growth, driven by transformative initiatives like the GMC project.

“One cannot possibly imagine any bigger undertaking of a King in one reign than what we are seeing today,” he wrote. “We are blessed to stand at the flag-off of such a significant project, and everyone is excited to contribute and work together towards a successful finishing line.”

He shared that his strong desire to contribute to the country was fulfilled through DNT, where he led the government. “And it came with the pandemic no world was prepared for. A governance, complicated by Covid-19, presented an enormous but a unique experience, which is now the valuable formula that will guide the rest of my life,” he said.

“As long as I am fit in health and firm in my resolve, I will continue to serve my King, country, and the people until my last day on earth, irrespective of the roles and positions,” Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering reaffirmed his commitment.

He added that in the ever-evolving democratic story of Bhutan, DNT has a long way to go, not just as a political party but as an institution offering Bhutan a credible choice to fulfill national visions.

Governor Dasho Dr. Lotay will lead the domestic implementation of the GMC strategy, ensuring its development is in harmony with Bhutanese values and His Majesty’s vision. He will oversee internal operations, working closely with CEO Mun Leong Liew to manage policies, infrastructure, and local execution.

His role will involve balancing local needs with international standards, positioning the city as a model for sustainable growth. As the primary domestic authority, he will drive sustainability initiatives and report directly to the Board of Directors.

The DNT, in a statement, expressed pride in their shared accomplishments. “While the party will miss his company and the invaluable guidance he provided, we are proud of what we have achieved together in contributing to Bhutan’s democracy and will always support him in his future endeavours.”

“He has become one of the finest leaders of our time. Beyond his compassionate and virtuous qualities, Dr Lotay Tshering’s dedication to serving our King, country, and people will remain our greatest inspiration as we continue to engage in the political process,” the party said.

After 11 years as a consultant urologist at JDWNRH, Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering paid Nu 6.2 million in training obligations to resign from the civil service and pursue a career in politics in 2013. He served as the president of the DNT during the 2018 and 2023 elections and as Prime Minister in the third democratically elected government.

Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering became the second person in the nation’s history to be awarded the Lungmar scarf and the title of Dasho at the National Day celebrations in 2020, in recognition of his dedication and efforts for the country during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also received the Druk Thuksey at the National Day celebrations in Haa in 2017 for his contributions to medicine.

Born in 1969 in Dalukha, Mewang gewog, Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering was awarded the Father William Mackey Gold Medal for academic excellence at Sherubtse College in 1991. Additionally, he received the Unsung Hero of Compassion award from the 14th Dalai Lama.