Thinley Namgay

For Damcho, a resident of Khamaed gewog in Gasa, his primary expectation from any political party is the development of his gewog.

As a villager living on the farm, mainly on agriculture, the 62-year-old wants to sell the farm produce. “Considering the current situation, chain link fencing is essential in our village. Otherwise, we can’t stop wild animals from raiding our crops.”

Others said they need better roads, better water drinking water supply and other amenities.

Druk Phuensum Tshogpa’s President Dorji Wangdi told the public of Khatoe and Khamaed in Gasa, and Bajo in Wangdue yesterday that rural development is one of the key pledges of his party.

He said that the party will invest in better roads, health facilities, electricity, food security, school enrolment, drinking and irrigation water to develop rural areas.

Issues for farmers related to the market for agricultural produce, fertiliser, and mobile networks will be addressed, he said.

He pledged to build three hydropower projects, initiate tax reforms, invest in tourism, mines and minerals, construct double-lane roads in all dzongkhags, and pragmatic rules and regulations to boost economic growth.

Considering the population decline in the country, DPT pledged to support couples who have more children.

Dorji Wangdi said that it would be a huge loss to the nation if youth who moved abroad decided not to return. To address this, he said it was necessary to improve the economy.

Dorji Wangdi shared achievements in hydropower, ICT and banking sector, and tourism, among others as the government. He said that the current sustainable development fee for tourists will be reduced to boost tourism.

According to Dorji Wangdi, the party’s principle of equity and justice will ensure peace and prosperity for the citizens, and also maintain the security and sovereignty of the country.

In the past three days, Dorji Wangdi appealed to the public that only DPT has the experience of having served in all three terms. “People should elect a capable party which focuses on both the present and future of the country.”

DPT’s candidates in Gasa are Pema Wangchuk from Khatoed-Laya and Sonam Chezom from Khamaed-Lunana.

 In Punakha, Sangay Phurba is the candidate for Kabji-Talo, and Tshewang Tenzin for Lingmukha-Toedwang.

Kinga Kinga is for Athang-Thoedtsho in Wangdue and Ugyen Tshering for Nyishu-Sephu.