Buddhist Bhutan Bans Clergy From Voting In Elections

Officials in Buddhist-majority Bhutan have barred Hindu and Buddhist clergy from voting in elections in order to keep a clear distinction between religion and politics.


In October, the country’s regulatory authority on religious organizations began identifying Buddhist and Hindu clergy who should be barred from voting.

Since the 17th century, Bhutan has followed a dual system of governance, known as the Chhoe-sid-nyi, which splits government powers into a religious branch headed by a chief abbot (known as Je Khenpo) and an administrative branch headed by the king (now the prime minister.)

Until recently, the clergy had the right to vote. The Chhoe-sid-nyi is “unified in the person of” and upheld by the sacrosanct but impeachable king, who has to be a Buddist, according to the 2008 constitution.

The constitution also mandates that parliament conclude all sessions with Buddhist prayers, and requires religious institutions and figures to promote the Buddhist spiritual heritage, “while also ensuring that religion remains separate from politics in Bhutan.” (RNS)