Lekey Dorji

Early Life and Education

Lekey Dorji was born on February 23, 1968. He holds a BSc in Electrical Engineering from the University of Kansas, USA, and an MSc in Operational Telecommunications from Coventry University, England.

Career in Telecommunications

Dorji began his career as an engineer with Bhutan Telecom (then a government department) in 1995, serving as Area Manager for the southern districts of Sarpang, Tsirang, and Dagana.

After resigning from government service in 2004, he pioneered Bhutan's private telecommunications sector. He initiated the country's first satellite-based internet service using Ku-band technology and played a key role in bringing down internet prices in Bhutan. He then served as a consultant to set up Tashi Cell, Bhutan's first private cellular company — a transformative development for the country's telecommunications landscape.

He also consulted for major international development organizations including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA), and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Political Career

Dorji represents the Bardo Trong constituency in Zhemgang. Following the 2024 elections, he was appointed Minister of Finance by the PDP government under Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. He received the Dakyen from His Majesty the King on January 28, 2024.

As Finance Minister^[1], he oversees the Bhutanese economy during a critical period of post-COVID recovery, youth unemployment, and the ambitious Gelephu Mindfulness City project.

References

1. "Lyonpo Lekey Dorji." Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF).
2. "Lekey Dorji — Finance Minister." Entrepreneur Bhutan.
3. "Finance Ministers." Ministry of Finance, Royal Government of Bhutan.
4. "His Majesty conferred Dakyen to PM, Speaker, and Cabinet Ministers." Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bhutan, January 2024.