The Bhutanese Leading the way.
As the general elections for the National Assembly nears, it is necessary to look into female candidates and female representation in politics. During the National Council elections, in the initial round, out of 124 participants, there were only 9 female candidates with only 1 winning the NC election.
This time, in the general elections, at the moment, the 5 parties have 23 female candidates competing.
From the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), there are only two female candidates.
From Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP), there are only 3 female candidates out of 47 candidates.
Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa (DTT) has 6 female candidates at the moment, out of 46 candidates, with 1 vacant position yet to be filled.
Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) has 5 female candidates at the moment and the party’s General Secretary, Sonam, said that they are looking into getting more female candidates for better representation at the moment.
He said, “Gender representation is very important, and over the years, we have understood the importance of female representation in not only in politics but also other fields.”
With the highest number of female candidates, Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) has 7 female candidates in the upcoming elections.
The lone female National Council elect, Tshering Tshomo, is an advocate for more female voices in the politics. “There are few reasons why women aren’t forthcoming for their participation in politics, which can be gender stereotypes and bias. The deep-rooted societal beliefs about politics meant to be for the men could be one of the reasons to limit women’s access to political opportunities. Another could be the under representation of women in the political offices, creating a perception of male dominated field may also contribute to the lack of confidence and interest in participating. Traditional gender role, societal expectation regarding marriage and family can also dissuade women from pursuing a political career.”
She also pointed out that the balancing roles and responsibilities, the disproportionate burden of domestic and caregiving responsibilities limiting the time and energy to dedicate to political pursuits. “Balancing personal and professional commitments becomes a challenge, hence discouraging involvement. I had to leave behind my teenage son and daughter all by themselves at home in Thimphu when I went for my campaign. Though this disturbed my peace, yet I had to sacrifice my presence in my children’s life because of the nature of the job I chose.”
She also added that the reality of women in politics all over the world, and in Bhutanese context, sharing that women often face online and offline harassment. “The unpleasing environment can also deter women entering the politics scenario,” she further added.
When Tshering was elected during the NC election, The Bhutanese had talked to her then regarding women’s quota, which she was in full support of.
She is the lone female voice in the Upper House, and for the upcoming elections, she hopes that the people will render their support for women representation.
“I encourage the voters to render their support in electing women candidates to the prestigious decision-making House of the nation. The timely advocacy programs, if held by the relevant agencies and stakeholders, should encourage more women participation and support from the people on the importance of having gender balanced representation in the Parliament.”
Currently, in the political scenario, there is only one female minister, the Health Minister Dasho Dechen Wangmo and 7 female Members of Parliament (MP) from the Lower House. They are Tshewang Lhamo from Bongo-Chapchha, Yeshey Dema from Khamaed-Lunana, Dorjee Wangmo from Sombaykha, Karma Lhamo from Mongar, Tshering Chhoden from Khar-Yurung, Norbu Wangzom from Jomotsangkha-Matshala, and Dil Maya Rai from Tashichhoeling. From the Upper House, the lone female elect, is Tshering Tshomo from Zhemgang and the two Eminent Members, are Kesang Chuki Dorjee and Tashi Chhozom.
