Jigme Palden Dorji

Jigme Palden Dorji succeeded his father as Gongzim, becoming the first formally titled Prime Minister of Bhutan under King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. He continued modernization policies, including land reforms and infrastructure development.

Jigme Palden Dorji introduced land reforms aimed at redistributing land from large estates to tenant farmers. These policies reduced feudal inequalities and increased agricultural productivity, though they faced resistance from traditional elites.

Jigme Palden Dorji was assassinated in Phuntsholing, Bhutan, in a political coup attempt. His death triggered a period of instability, leading to the consolidation of power by the monarchy and the temporary suspension of the prime ministerial office.