Among a dozen National Council aspirants from Tsirang, Sangay Tamang, 35, claims he can meet the expectations of his voters and find a seat at the upper house.

He also claimed that he was interested to contest in the NC elections before but immaturity and fear of failing to meet the people’s expectations held him back.

Sangay Tamang will contest from Tsholingkhar gewog.

He contested for the post of a gup in the 2016 local government elections but lost by two votes at the chiwog zomdu. “Since then I have been staying home experiencing farming life.”

He has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from North Bengal University. Soon after college, he worked with a travel agent for six months.

Later, he worked at a private cable business for three years as a manager. But for the last three years, Sangay has been helping his parents in the village.

Sangay claims that staying in the village has helped him become aware of issues in his community and the dzongkhag.

Tsirang, he said, needs support to promote organic products. “With better products, there is a need for better market where farmers could boost their income. This will ultimately improve rural economic development.”

Sangay Tamang believes that experience is not always a factor to become a NC member. “What matters most is to serve the Tsawa-sum with loyalty and respect the people’s decision.”

He said that he wants to be a good leader and be a bridge between the government and people.

Nirmala Pokhrel | Tsirang