Former Thimphu dzongdag, Tshewang Rinzin has decided to contest in the upcoming National Council elections from Thimphu.

Given his 35 years of work experience in various capacities as a law implementer, the 55-year old from Dazhi, Kawang gewog believes that his ability to work immediately on assumption of office in NC if elected is the reason why people of Thimphu should vote for him.

“The NC as an upper house of review is not a place to earn experience, and I have a long experience from closely implementing laws,” he said.

He said that his decision to resign from service took place after some well – wishers and village elders encouraged him to contest. He also has strong support from his family members and said that his candidature is to give choice to the voters.

If elected, he said he would focus on reviewing the existing laws and try to bring down the number to few yet strong and effective laws in line with the Constitution.

He said working in the home district where all the ministries were located was challenging, but it was an opportunity to serve the people in terms of improving the system and sanitation problem, among others.

“For example, the turn-around time for any service from the district administration to the people is much faster and easier now,” he said

His father, he said, served as gup in the gewog for 18 years.

Tshewang Rinzin started his career as a computer programmer at the secretariat of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. He then worked as a physical education instructor, teacher, head master, principal and district education officer.

Later he served as Werringla Dungpa in Mongar before he became the dzongdag for Chukha, Trongsa and Thimphu. He resigned from the civil service on January 15.

Tshewang Rinzin has an MA in education administration from the University of New England, Australia.

“With the experience and understanding of laws as a long time implementer, I believe this is the right time to serve the people,” he said.

Tshering Namgyal