The Bhutanese Leading the way.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP)’s Thrimshing candidate, and PDP Vice President Dorji Choden, said that the emerging issues in the constituency include declining subsistence agriculture due to a lack of farm labor and crop damage by wild animals.
Human-Wildlife conflict is a significant problem, with an increase in both the number and diversity of wild animals. Fallow lands and Gungtongs are common, and village youths often resort to labor contracts or seasonal day labor for income.
Answering why her constituency should vote for her she said, “Strategies to increase rural income are crucial. PDP, in our manifesto, pledges to transform agriculture, support farmers, and work towards mechanization and industrialization. We also aim to develop growth centers with urban amenities to attract youth. I have been in politics for 15 years, and my constituency has consistently supported me. I have contributed to infrastructure development, enhancing income in Thrimshing. I believe I have earned the trust of my constituents, and the party’s leadership and manifesto promise economic prosperity.”
Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP)’s Thrimshing candidate, Damcho Tenzin, identified issues in his constituency, like the lack of voter education and a deficiency in voter awareness programs. A challenge is the time it takes for new parties to gain support.
In advocating for his candidacy Damcho Tenzin said, “People should vote for me and BTP because we’re a clean party with no affiliations to others. Our president has held various positions and is the recipient of a Red Kabney as a civil servant. I, as an individual, represent my people and bring new energy, having served for 28 years as a civil servant. These attributes make BTP a deserving choice for the voters in Nanong Shumar.”
PDP’s Radhi Sakteng candidate, Sonam Wangchuk, highlighted the issues in his constituency, such as water problems (both drinking and irrigation), tsamdro (pasture land) concerns, and the need for maintenance and redevelopment of development activities.
“The Bhutanese people possess wisdom to make informed decisions, and my constituents are no exception. With 27 years of dedicated service at various levels, I bring a strong sense of commitment. My ability to listen, understand people’s issues, and persuade policymakers and stakeholders has been instrumental in bringing development to the constituency. My genuine intention is to serve the nation through politics, prioritizing both national and constituency concerns while empathizing with the people.”
BTP’s Radhi-Sakteng candidate, Tashi Tenzin, said the major issues in the constituency include irrigation water problems, labor shortages, wildlife crop damage, increasing fallow land and Gungtong, dilapidated roads, lack of market infrastructure, technology, and investment in significant projects like hydropower.
“I’m born and raised in Phongmed, intimately understand the ground issues in the four gewogs. With over 15 years in the Department of Geology and Mines and experience serving under past three governments. Recognizing the economic importance of mines and minerals, particularly in rebuilding our nation, I am confident in my ability to contribute significantly to legislation and policy reforms in this sector,” he expressed.
PDP’s Wamrong candidate, Yeshi Nidup, shared the issues in the constituency that involves rural-urban migration, lack of economic opportunities, human-wildlife conflict, poor road conditions, and rural poverty.
“I seek my demkhong people’s vote for three reasons: my technical expertise for quality infrastructure development, educational knowledge, practical experience for rapid socio-economic growth, and a humble approach to serving the demkhong,” he said.
BTP’s Wamrong candidate, Lam Dorji, said Lumang Gewog faces the highest poverty rate in Trashigang, and BTP is committed to addressing this challenge. They plan to focus on elevating household incomes, recognizing agriculture as the primary income source for rural communities. BTP plans to enhance market access, provide access to financial services, initiate land development to facilitate farm mechanization and improve roads and irrigation facilities.
“Three reasons why people should vote for me include my 31 years of grassroots experience, understanding the economic development of my constituency, and a commitment to humble service,” he expressed.
