HIMPHU: Bhutan’s former prime minister, Tshering Tobgay, secured victory in the country’s elections, with his People’s Democratic Party (PDP) winning nearly two-thirds of the parliamentary seats. The election, overshadowed by economic concerns, highlighted the challenges faced by Bhutan, known for its unique focus on “Gross National Happiness” as a measure of success.
Tobgay, a 58-year-old conservation advocate, is expected to become the premier for the second time. The PDP secured 30 seats, while the Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) took the remaining 17, based on preliminary results from each constituency, as reported by The Bhutanese newspaper.
The election saw a significant focus on the struggles confronting Bhutan’s younger generation, including chronic youth unemployment and a notable brain drain. Both political parties in the election uphold the constitutional philosophy of a government measuring success by the “happiness and well-being of the people.”
Bhutan’s Economic Challenges
Challenges such as a 29% youth unemployment rate and sluggish economic growth at an average of 1.7% over the past five years were central themes during the campaign. Tobgay emphasized the “unprecedented economic challenges and mass exodus” facing Bhutan, with concerns about the loss of skilled individuals abroad.
The nation’s youth have been leaving in record numbers, seeking better opportunities abroad, with Australia being a popular destination. The outgoing government’s struggles to address basic needs for food and necessities were highlighted in the PDP’s manifesto.
With the final results expected to be released on Wednesday by the Election Commission, Bhutan’s political landscape faces the task of addressing economic issues and retaining its skilled workforce. The country, situated between India and China, remains strategically significant for both neighboring nations.
