Bhutan | 1974 | 10 Chethrums | Jigme Singye Wangchuk

 


Jigme Singye Wangchuck

Jigme Singye Wangchuck (born 11 November 1955) became the Fourth King of Bhutan in 1972 at just 17 following the sudden death of his father, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Enthroned in 1974, he continued Bhutan’s modernization while preserving its cultural identity.

His reign is remembered for significant reforms, especially decentralization and the gradual introduction of democracy. In 1998 he reduced royal authority, empowered ministers, and introduced a rotating Prime Minister system.

In 2006 he abdicated in favour of his son, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, initiating the move to parliamentary democracy. This transition culminated in Bhutan’s first democratic elections in 2008, guided by a new constitution drafted under his vision.

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