There’s something strange going on.

I have already expressed my concerns that the prime minister’s office may be influencing the media. But what has recently been happening is worse: one newspaper, Bhutan Today, has started carrying every press release that comes out of the prime minister’s office as their own story, word for word, but with their own byline.

Compare the following stories:

• “Bigger responsibility for NSB, better data for nation” by the Cabinet; and “Statistics and GNH Statistics” by Bhutan Today
• “SAARC summit: preparations in full swing” by the Cabinet; and “450 Delegates to Attend SAARC Summit” by Bhutan Today
• “100% FDI to build five-star hotels in Bhutan” by the Cabinet; and “100% FDI for Luxury Hotels” by Bhutan Today
• “It’s Ethics, Stupid” by the Cabinet; and “It’s Ethics, Stupid” by Bhutan Today
• “Tourism Reforms” by the Cabinet; and “Tourism Reforms” by Bhutan Today
• “Two-way dialogue is important, says PM” by the Cabinet; and “Dialogue Important: says PM” by Bhutan Today

My concern is no longer that the prime minister’s office may be influencing a newspaper. I’m now concerned that they could be controlling Bhutan Today.

There’s something dangerous going on. And I’m writing to BICMA about it.