The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) introduced three more candidates at the party office in Olakha, Thimphu on June 23.
Party president Tshering Tobgay introduced the new candidates. With this, PDP has declared 27 new candidates for the 2018 National Assembly elections.
The candidates are former deputy secretary general of Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Kesang Wangdi, 50, for Khamdang-Ramjar constituency in Trashiyangtse; former branch manager of Bhutan Development Bank Limited, Phuntsho Dendup, 33, for Nubi-Tangsibjee constituency in Trongsa, and hotelier and businessman, Kuenzang Thinley, 34, for Chhokhor-Tang constituency in Bumthang.
Party president Tshering Tobgay said the candidates bring along rich experiences in private and banking sector and business, making PDP’s team even more diverse. “As formidable youth leaders, they balance the experience of other candidates,” he said.
Kesang Wangdi worked as the regional secretary of BCCI regional office in Phuentsholing and as secretary of private sector development committee. He also worked as board director of Bhutan Argo Industry Ltd., Druk PNB Bank Ltd., Druk Ferro Alloys Ltd., Accounting and Auditing Standard Board of Bhutan and Royal Institute of Management.
He said that he would make the best use of his 24 years of experience in the private sector in formulating policies that will further drive private sector growth.
“The PDP government has prioritised private sector development through rural enterprise development, cottage and small industries and foreign direct investments and we are all witness to how much these initiatives have directly benefited our economy and particularly our people,” Kesang Wangdi said.
He has a Masters degree in Business Administration (International Business) from University of Thai Chamber of Commerce, Bangkok, Thailand.
After completing his college education, Kuenzang Thinley, popularly known as Kaila Kuenzang took over his family business and since then has been managing it. He has a Bachelors degree in Business Management from Bangalore University, India. He was also PDP’s candidate in 2013.
“I joined politics in 2013 to serve the country better and I am back as PDP’s candidate so that I can win the trust and confidence of the people this time,” said Kuenzang Thinley.
Kaila Kuenzang will be contesting against political bulwarks like Opposition Leader, Pema Gyamtsho (PhD) in his constituency.
“As a young candidate, I have the energy, drive and commitment to make a difference in my community and politics is a step toward a much bigger cause, to offer my service to the nation,” he said.
Phuntsho Dendup started his career as an administrative officer at Bhutan Polythene Company Limited and later worked as project officer of Bhutan Development Bank Limited for the western region. He then served as assistant branch manager and branch manager of Bhutan Development Bank Limited, Trongsa.
“As a young candidate, I would like to represent the voice of the youth and young men and women in our country and contribute positively to nation building,” he said.
He has a Bachelors degree in Business Administration (BBA) with specialisation in finance from Gaeddu College of Business Studies.
“The candidates also bring along with them youthful dynamism and energy,” said PDP General Secretary Sonam Jatso. “Their experience, qualifications, and leadership abilities have also further strengthened our team, as we prepare for the 2018 elections.”
Staff Reporter