As Bhutan awaits the outcome of the 4th national election, both the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) have outlined their visions for the nation’s future, emphasizing their strengths and priorities.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) asserts its candidacy based on experience, a proven track record, capable candidates, and a manifesto aimed at revitalizing and strengthening the economy. The party’s top three priorities, if elected, include revitalizing the economy, finalizing and implementing the 13th Five-Year Plan, and serving His Majesty in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
PDP’s economic plans include a short-term Economic Stimulus Plan (ESP) to infuse liquidity, followed by medium-term improvements in the business environment. This encompasses support for retail, small businesses, farming sectors, and critical industries like CSIs, tourism, construction, manufacturing, and mining. The party also aims to rapidly expand the hydropower sector, attract large amounts of foreign direct investment (FDI), and garner public support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.
The Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP), a relatively new entrant in Bhutanese politics, emphasizes the need for change. Despite being less than a year old, BTP made it through the primary round, showcasing a vision, manifesto, and candidates, primarily from the civil service. The party’s top three priorities include improving systems by eliminating redundant rules, reviewing acts like Procurement Rules and Regulations, focusing on infrastructure like connectivity and energy, and enhancing household income.
BTP’s economic plans revolve around creating an enabling environment for businesses by doing away with redundant rules and empowering the private sector. The party aims to streamline regulations, enhance connectivity, and focus on skilling the youth for future projects like the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Both parties express a commitment to serving the Tsa-Wa-Sum and His Majesty the King. The PDP, if elected, pledges diligent and dedicated service, while the BTP promises straightforward leadership, bold decisions for the national cause, and accountability for failures.
During the campaign trail, both parties have received substantial public attendance and support. PDP notes the public’s determination to participate in the democratic process for a brighter future. BTP, being a new party, has garnered positive responses, with voters from other parties expressing interest in joining for a change.
Both parties express support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, seeing it as a gift from His Majesty the King symbolizing a commitment to a mindful and sustainable future. PDP emphasizes the groundwork done by His Majesty and commits to serving in any capacity possible for the city’s rapid development. BTP outlines plans to support the project through enhanced connectivity, skilling up the youth, and ensuring success through road and internet connectivity.
As Bhutanese citizens cast their votes, the decision rests on which party’s vision resonates most with the hopes and aspirations of the people, setting the stage for the nation’s trajectory in the coming years.
