Neten Dorji

Thrimshing’s common forums reveal a disheartening turnout, suggesting either a lack of voter interest in candidates’ offerings or a pre-determined decision on whom to vote for.

The recent gathering at Thrimshing Central School witnessed a mere 33 attendees, signaling a concerning lack of civic engagement.

Despite the low attendance, the political contenders, particularly those from Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) and People Democratic Party (PDP), asserted their resilience.

These candidates emphasized the significance of party leadership and conveyed their commitments to the electorate.

Notably, both BTP and PDP articulated a shared commitment to enhancing infrastructure, focusing on road improvements, land development, and the provision of chain-link fences.

Dorji Choden, PDP’s candidate, outlined specific pledges, including interest-free loans for acquiring power tillers and other agricultural machinery.

She underscored promises such as blacktopping farm roads, developing new connectivity roads, upgrading irrigation channels, and ensuring reliable safe drinking water for every household.

Addressing the challenge of budget constraints in gewogs, Dorji Choden proposed a substantial Nu 15 Billion economic stimulus plan.

This initiative aims to address community issues by providing grants to local governments, contingent on the president and party’s capabilities.

Additionally, Dorji Choden pledged to explore road connectivity to Lauri and allocate 4 percent for startup businesses and agricultural machinery. Her call to voters emphasised the importance of electing a government based on the president’s abilities and experience.

Damche Tenzin, BTP’s candidate, echoed the call for a corruption-free government, aligning with the party’s vision to establish Mimang Zhabto Tewa in Thrimshing and Kangpara gewog. Tenzin’s promises included initiating the Ngera-Ama Hydro project, improving road quality, supporting agricultural markets, constructing new roads, reopening closed schools, and enhancing education quality.

Tenzin urged voters to prioritise a government that benefits both the nation and its people, emphasising the need for fair elections and discouraging bribery.

He highlighted the candidates’ governmental service and experience as qualifications for effective governance.

Residents attending the forum expressed increased political awareness compared to past elections, citing a clear understanding of their constituency’s needs.

The sentiment among residents indicates a well-informed electorate, with many having already made their decisions based on careful consideration of candidates’ opinions throughout the primary election.

As the Thrimshing constituency’s common forum approaches its conclusion on December 23, the responsibility falls on voters to elect a government that aligns with their vision for progress and development.