Thimphu – The need for independent and fully furnished office space for Members of the National Assembly (MPs) is not an insignificant requirement. This is a basic need that underscores the importance of strengthening our democratic institutions.
There are currently 29 MPs sharing offices (two to a room) and the limitations of the current arrangement are undeniable. Privacy, efficiency, and professionalism are compromised, hampering the ability of our legislators to effectively carry out their duties.
The shared office model reduces productivity and creates real obstacles. MPs represent diverse constituencies with pressing needs, and their responsibilities extend far beyond attending parliamentary meetings. Engaging with stakeholders, holding meetings and reviewing policy requires confidentiality and focus that shared offices cannot provide.
Imagine a councilor negotiating a sensitive agreement or discussing a key issue, all the while keeping an eye on the presence of another occupier. This situation diminishes the dignity and functionality of the office, making it unsuitable for the work of a legislator.
Historically, MPs worked in offices outside Parliament House. This poses logistical challenges, especially during parliamentary sessions when proximity to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker is critical for effective coordination. The move to the Houses of Parliament during the third term of government addressed some of these issues, in particular enhancing security and accessibility. However, the solution is still incomplete.
The need for personal office space is not a luxury, but a recognition of the changing needs of our democracy. Legislatures around the world recognize that independent offices are critical to increasing efficiency and accountability. As Bhutan matures as a democracy, ensuring that parliamentarians have the tools and environment to carry out their duties effectively is a natural step.
Critics may argue that the cost of establishing an independent office could strain state budgets. While fiscal discipline is crucial, this investment is not an indulgence but a necessity. The costs of maintaining a sound and efficient legislative system pale in comparison to the costs of ineffective and underperforming governance. Additionally, independent offices will improve constituent access, allowing MPs to engage directly with the people they represent without disruption or logistical barriers.
If our governance system is to strengthen, we must provide the tools legislators need to function effectively. Independent office spaces are a simple but important step in integrating our democratic practices with our vision for good governance.
The need for personal offices is not only about convenience but also about fulfilling needs. It is about building an institution that embodies the dignity of its responsibilities. It is about creating an environment that allows members of Congress to think, deliberate and act in a way that is best for the country. To deny this request would be to accept the mediocrity of the functioning of the country’s highest legislative body.
