National Council’s Sarpang MP repeatedly called for better salaries and improved livelihood support for civil servants and private sector in the National Council today. He said doing so could help address major corruption vulnerabilities in the country. This was raised during the council’s deliberation on the Review Report of Anti-Corruption Commission’s Annual Report 2024–2025 today.
During the session, the MP highlighted how financial strain increases the risk of corruption, including embezzlement, bribery, and abuse of function.
The MP said, “If we look at the Household Consumption and Expenditure Survey 2025, it shows that people living in urban areas spend around Nu 80,000 a month, while those in remote areas spend around Nu 55,000. For civil servants, supporting dependents and paying loans, the financial pressure and liquidity issues can run into millions.”
He added that these financial pressures often create conditions where corruption can occur, which is why, he said, a salary review is necessary.
In response, the Good Governance Committee said it would not be feasible to include a salary review in their recommendations, noting that such changes must come through a Pay Commission appointed by the government.
Phuntsho Rapten, a member of Good Governance Committee, National Council said,“When the pay revision report was deliberated in 2023, this issue was discussed then and not only at that time, but in previous sessions as well. Typically, the ruling government deliberates on pay revision during its term, and during those deliberations we examined the issue thoroughly, identifying vulnerable areas and the need for differentiated incentives for officials.”
He added that the committee have recommended providing adequate funding and resources to law enforcement agencies such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, police, OAG, and the judiciary to strengthen specialised capabilities in areas such as digital forensics and financial investigations.
The House discussed five recommendations proposed by the committee, approving four by a show of hands. One recommendation was sent back to the committee for review in consultation with members involved.
The report, along with the final recommendations, will be adopted on 23rd of December.
Tashi Dekar& Namgay Wangdi
