The Bhutanese Leading the way.
As the enthusiasm of the 2023–2024 National Assembly Elections envelops Bhutan, political parties are leaving no stone unturned in their bid to secure the hearts and votes of the people.
The five major players are Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP), Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa (DTT), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT), and Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT).
Bhutan Tendrel Party
BTP reflected on its journey as a new political force. With a focus on responsibility, organization, and reliability, BTP’s strategy involved extensive familiarization meetings, introducing party leader as a dedicated civil servant.
The party’s key message, “Mimang Zhapto,” underscores the commitment to provide quality public services while removing stifling rules and regulations. Recognizing the pulse of the nation during familiarization meetings, BTP shifted gears to address constituents’ concerns.
The party’s outreach spans all social groups, targeting marginalized segments, differently-abled individuals, senior citizens, and women. They envision equipping the youth with globally relevant skills, promoting a gig economy, and establishing the Bhutan Idea and Innovation Bank.
Increased voter awareness and perception have helped BTP gain a positive response. The party, regardless of the election outcome, takes pride in contributing to setting high standards for political parties, emphasizing responsiveness, organization, practicality, and professionalism.
The Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) has shared that their election campaign is in full swing and progressing well.
The party’s spokesperson shared that their slogan, “Your Voice, Your Hope,” and their manifesto themed “For a Prosperous Bhutan” have resonated strongly with the people.
He also shared that the manifesto not only reflects the aspirations of the people, but also provides a strategic direction for the nation’s economy.
Further, he shared that the party’s manifesto is based on specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound goals. The party’s focus is on empowering the people and ensuring good governance by addressing structural barriers and removing unnecessary rules and regulations.
BTP has covered various regions such as Thimphu, Trashigang, Mongar, Samdrupjongkhar, and Pemagatshel. Despite a tight schedule and limited time, the party is determined to campaign in all dzongkhags.
Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa
Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa (DTT) acknowledged the challenges of campaigning during the harvest season and local festivals, which posed a hurdle to mobilizing people. Despite this, the party employed conventional methods through coordinators and supporters, along with leveraging various social media platforms, including the Thuendrel App.
The party reported successful gatherings, with substantial turnouts in places like Pemagatshel and Samdrupjongkhar. The responses from the public have been positive, with Sunomics pledges gaining traction during public debates. The party’s proposition to transform Lhengye Dhensa into Zhabto Dhensa resonated with the people, offering hope for streamlined services under one roof.
DTT showcased their adaptability by tailoring messages for different demographic interests on various social media platforms. The Thuendrel App, with over 1,500 registrations and 500 queries, comments, and feedback, serves as an indicator of the people’s keen engagement with the party.
DTT shared that they are currently in Tsirang with their campaign. Close to 350 people have gathered for a meeting, which they said is a good response from the people, showing appreciation for the DTT plans from the pledges. So far, the party has covered Trashigang, Mongar, Lhuentse, Pemagatshel, Samdrupjongkhar, and Sarpang.
People’s Democratic Party
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) General Secretary Kuenga Tashi reported positive feedback from the ground, echoing a sentiment of optimism.
The PDP highlighted the progressive nature of their activities in each dzongkhag.
In certain areas, the party has witnessed enthusiastic participation and active involvement from the voters, which is seen as an encouraging sign.
It was known that the candidates have been employing diverse strategies to connect with the electorate, showcasing a mix of strong public support. They have been working tirelessly to engage with voters, presenting their platforms, and actively participating in debates to address the concerns and aspirations of the people.
Public views about PDP and its candidates are diverse and multifaceted. While some individuals have expressed enthusiasm for specific candidates, others have shown appreciation for the party’s vision and pledges. This indicates the varied perspectives and interests among the electorate.
The PDP’s campaign efforts have covered over 20 constituencies, with several meetings held in significant constituencies. This extensive outreach demonstrates the party’s commitment to reaching as many voters as possible and listening to their voices.
As the election campaign progresses, the PDP remains focused on connecting with the people and presenting their vision for the future of Bhutan. The party continues to engage in discussions and activities that resonate with the electorate, aiming to secure their support in the upcoming elections.
Druk Phuensum Tshogpa
Sonam Tashi, the General Secretary of Druk Phuensum Tshogpa, conveyed assurance by stating, “We have executed our responsibilities effectively, and the overall process is proceeding without complications. Currently, the party has covered ten dzongkhags, with plans to extend its reach to additional regions gradually.”
The DPT has expressed optimism about their campaign.
The party is hopeful about the response from the people and is actively engaging with the electorate. The DPT said it is committed to addressing the concerns and aspirations of the people.
Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa
Meanwhile, the Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) has also reported positive progress in their campaign.
The DNT President has already covered Samtse, Sarpang, and Tsirang, and is currently campaigning in Dagana.
DNT’s focus is to inform the people about the party’s strengths and the initiatives undertaken in the past five years. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the party informed the people of the significant progress it made, and pledged to continue their transformative reforms for the betterment of the country.
As Bhutan eagerly awaits the outcome of the elections, these updates from the political landscape showcase the diverse strategies and approaches employed by parties vying for the people’s mandate. With each party weaving its narrative and addressing the unique challenges of different dzongkhags, the electorate finds, itself, at the heart of a dynamic and engaging democratic process.
