The government has decided to give the Foreign Minister, Rinzin Dorje, an “Authorised Absence” in connection with alleged corruptions related to Lhakhang Karpo’s renovation.
The Cabinet has recommended that the Prime Minister take over the portfolio of Foreign Minister, says a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The decision comes after the completion of investigation by the Office of Attorney General and Anti-Corruption Commission.
“Since the investigation has been completed, the government has advised the OAG to proceed with the case in accordance with the law of the land,” states the press release.
It says the government decided to grant the foreign minister an “Authorised Absence” to prevent controversy and conflict of interest, seeing that the OAG will be prosecuting the case on behalf of the Government.
During the recent press conference, the Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay said the Office of the Attorney General took more time than necessary to prosecute the Lhakhang Karpo case.
Lyonchhen had said the government will do their job once OAG files in the case.
The Anti-Corruption Commission’s investigation had found out the construction materials from the Lhakhang Karpo’s construction sites were siphoned off. The Foreign Minister, who was the then Haa Dzongda is said to have awarded the works unilaterally.
ACC is also said to have uncovered use of substandard material and muster roll fraud, among other fraudulent activities.