Bhutan Assembly polls: PDP way ahead with 39 of 47 seats in pocket in first round of polls

The Bhutan Tendrel Party or BTP came in second winning 4 constituencies. The incumbent Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa or DNT managed to win just 2 seats

The provisional results for the first round of Bhutan Assembly polls are out. The People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) that has always been a strong contender, has taken a clear lead in the just concluded round one of the Bhutan National Assembly polls winning in 39 of the 47 constituencies.

The Bhutan Tendrel Party or BTP came in second winning 4 constituencies. The incumbent Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa or DNT managed to win just 2 seats. Other parties – Druk Phuensum Tshogpa or DPT won 2, while Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa or DTT drew a blank in the primaries.

PDP is contesting the elections under the leadership of former Prime Minister and PDP president Tshering Tobgay. The party secured over 42.5%. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, President Tshering Tobgay highlighted that the election outcome reflects the public’s confidence in the party’s vision for Bhutan. Tobgay emphasized the focus on continuity and growth in the upcoming general round.

Worth mentioning here that PDP was fined a whopping Rs 75,000 for flouting election norms. The party was accused of claiming royal support which is against the norm.

The battle in the second round which would be the final round of polls, will be between the PDP and BTP.

BTP President Pema Chewang credited the success in the primary round to the party’s focus on systemic issues, rules, and regulations, along with the candidates’ background as former civil servants and parliament members who are in the fray earning the trust of Bhutanese voters. Chewang expressed confidence in forming the government but acknowledged the need for strategic planning and intensified efforts before the final round to be held on January 9.

Outgoing Prime Minister Lotay Tshering of DNT party gracefully acknowledged the results and extended best wishes to the advancing parties, reflecting a spirit of sportsmanship.

The primary round saw an overall voter turnout of 63%, indicating a strong participation from the Bhutanese population in this crucial democratic process.

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