Dewathang – Gomdar, Samdrupjongkhar
Registered voters: 16,607 | Male: 8,069 | Female: 8,538
Tshering Penjor
Age: 43
Work experience: 18 years (Teacher, Assistant Principal, Vice Principal for 12 years and 6 years as Planning and Program Officer)
Education: Masters in Educational administration and Bachelor of Education
Your worst nightmare?
My worst nightmare would be a situation where our citizens don’t have access to the opportunities and services they deserve.
What do you think is the best part of your constituency?
One of the most remarkable aspects of our constituency is its vibrant and diverse community.
What is the difference between a good politician and a bad politician?
The distinction between a good and a bad politician is subjective and can vary depending on individual perspectives and values. However, some general characteristics are often associated with effective and ethical political leaders compared to ineffective or unethical ones.
What do you like about your opponent?
I have a deep respect for my opponent’s dedication to public service and their commitment to the well-being of our community.
One problem that you have faced during your campaign. What do you think can be done to address that?
One challenge we faced during our campaign was reaching all corners of our diverse constituency effectively. Bhutan’s unique geographical features and varied communities presented logistical challenges in ensuring that our message reached everyone. To address this, we have been actively using technology to connect with voters through social media platforms.
Your priority for the constituency?
My top priority for our constituency is to enhance the overall well-being and prosperity of our residents. This involves focusing on several key areas: Economic Development (Commencing of Neyra amari Hydro Power Projects and Eco-tourism), Elderly welfare schemes, Schemes for persons with disabilities,Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure Development, and Environmental Conservation.
We have problems in addressing women and child abuse. Why are our politicians not pledging anything to address the issue?
I share the concerns about the critical issue of women and child abuse in our community, and I am deeply committed to addressing this pressing challenge. It is disheartening that these issues persist, and I believe that as a society, we must come together to find effective solutions. One reason politicians may not be making specific pledges could be the complexity of the issue and the need for comprehensive, evidence-based strategies. Addressing women and child abuse requires not only legal measures but also a cultural shift, increased awareness, and support services for victims. During my tenure, I pledge to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including law enforcement, social services, and community organizations, to develop and implement effective policies and programs including Legal Reforms, Education and Awareness, Support Services, and Community Engagement. It’s crucial to recognize that tackling these issues requires a concerted effort from the entire community. As your representative, I am committed to being a vocal advocate for the rights and safety of women and children, and I will work tirelessly to address these challenges and create a safer, more inclusive community for everyone.
Business in Samdrup Jongkhar town has dwindled despite parties promising better tourist arrivals. What will your party do to change that?
Addressing the decline in business in Samdrup Jongkhar town and fulfilling promises of boosting tourist arrivals requires a comprehensive approach.
I understand the concerns about the decline in business in Samdrup Jongkhar town, and I share the commitment to revitalizing the local economy. To address this challenge, my party and I have developed a multifaceted plan focused on promoting tourism and fostering economic growth. Engaging the local community is key to the success of any tourism initiative. Another area of focus is the collaboration with Private Sector. We recognize the vital role of the private sector in driving economic growth. We will foster partnerships with local businesses, providing support through incentives and initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship and investment in the tourism sector. Our vision is to not only reverse the decline in business but also to create a thriving and sustainable economy in SamdrupJongkhar. By implementing these initiatives, we aim to attract more tourists, stimulate economic activity, and ensure the prosperity of the local community. These are the proactive plans that combine tourism promotion, infrastructure development, community engagement, skill development, and collaboration with the private sector to address the decline in business in Samdrup Jongkhar town.
Kelzang Phuntsho
Age: 41
Work experience:16 years in Private companies of Bhutan (Chief Operating Officer, HR/Adm Officer, & Data Center Manager)
Education: Master of Business Administration from University of Canberra
Your worst nightmare?
Fortunately, I tend to focus more on positive outcomes rather than nightmares. Challenges and obstacles have been part of my journey, but I’ve always seen them as opportunities to learn and grow. I believe in facing difficulties head-on, which helps me navigate through tough situations with determination and resilience.
What do you think is the best part of your constituency?
The most remarkable aspect of my constituency is its diversity. It’s a heterogenous community from various walks of life, representing diverse ethnicities, languages, economic backgrounds, and belief systems. Despite this rich tapestry of differences, there’s a shared belief in the unity of Dewathang Gomdar. This unity reflects in diverse thoughts and actions converging toward a common goal: building a better Dewathang Gomdar that significantly contributes to the progress of a better Druk Yul.
What is the difference between a good politician and a bad politician?
A good politician works tirelessly for the welfare of the people they represent, while a bad politician exploits the people for their own selfish ambitions.
What do you like about your opponent?
I respect my opponent’s perspectives in this campaign. Differing viewpoints contribute to a well-rounded discussion.
One problem that you have faced during your campaign. What can be done to address that?
Unfounded allegations against PDP posed a challenge during the campaign. Addressing this requires informing people about the truth behind these allegations and shedding light on the intentions driving these accusations during the election period.
Your priority for the constituency?
My primary focus is on enhancing the economic landscape and fostering rural community development. To achieve this, I aim to:
Provide interest-free loans for farm machinery and jersey cows.
Offer 95% housing loans at a 4% interest rate and low-interest vehicle purchase loans.
Reinstate three central schools in Gomdar, Orong, and Phuntshothang (Karmaling) and ensure all facilities are restored. Additionally, establish two new central schools in Dewathang and Wangphu gewogs, and set up Chiwog schools where necessary.
Repair and blacktop all gewog center roads, major chiwog roads, and stone soling/base course all farm roads.
Stabilize and connect all villages with three-phase power lines, improve telecom connectivity while reducing charges by 50%.
Empower local governance while enhancing health infrastructure and ensure adequate human resources.
We have problems addressing women and child abuse. Why are our politicians not pledging anything to address the issue?
I recognize the severity of this problem, and it’s imperative that we address it. It’s a critical issue that demands proactive measures and sincere commitment from policymakers.
Business in Samdrupjongkhar town has dwindled despite promises of increased tourist arrivals. What will your party do to change that?
To invigorate business in Samdrup Jongkhar, our plan involves:
Elevating Samdrup Jongkhar border gate’s status to an international gateway, akin to Phuntsholing.
Collaborating with Dzongkhag and Thromde administrations and the private sector to improve necessary infrastructure for tourism.
Initiating programs that are conducive to tourism and friendly to tourists, thereby attracting more visitors and revitalizing the local economy.