With more than three decades of service in the education sector, Sonam Gyamtsho, 53, from Norbuling, Samtse aspires to contest in the upcoming National Council (NC) elections.

He said he decided to contest because of his belief about the crucial role elected leaders play in nation building. “There are lots of political, social and economic issues in the country.”

He said that there is a need to formulate sound legislation and policies.

Sonam Gyamtsho has worked in several gewogs of Samtse such as Chengmari, Dorokha, and Sipsu as a teacher, headmaster, principal, and assistant district education officer.

“I am well acquainted with the people of the dzongkhag and problems associated,” he said. “I see myself as a true representative of the people.”

He said he pledges to serve the King, Country and the People to the best of his ability.

Sonam Gyamtsho has a Master of Arts (MA) in Lifelong Learning Policy and Management from Aarhus University, Denmark and a Master of Education by Research (M. Res) from Tasmania University, Australia. He did his bachelors from National Institute of Education, Samtse.

He also worked in the NC Secretariat as the head of administration and finance division, which he claims provided him with adequate exposure to the NC procedures and functions.

Sonam Gyamtsho said he aspires to improve the socio-economic status of the people, address youth-related issues and promote eco-friendly regional tourism. “Community participation and people’s voices will be respected on any issue pertaining to gewogs and the dzongkhag,” he said.

He also said he would work closely with the central and local government, including private sector through consultative and collaborative processes.

“My sincere prayer is that the electorates would exercise their franchise sensibly and elect a progressive candidate who represents the people of Samtse,” he said.

Rajesh Rai | Thimphu