Chencho Dema

Yesterday,  People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) emerged victorious in the Lingmukha-Toedwang and Kabisa-Talo constituencies in Punakha, securing their spots in the upcoming general round.

The voters in both constituencies demonstrated unwavering support for the PDP, leading to a resounding victory in Kabji-Talo seat with an impressive 3,674 votes.

The BTP claimed the second position with 1,471 votes, followed by Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) in third with 1,284 votes.

In the Lingmukha-Toedwang constituency, PDP secured the top spot with 1,888 votes, followed by Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa with 1,548 votes and Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa with 1,019 votes.

The BTP garnered 632 votes, while Druk Phuensum Tshogpa received 261 votes.

Lingmukha-Toedwang constituency boasted 7,807 registered voters, comprising 3,815 males and 3,992 females. The constituency had 1,735 in-country conventional postal voters and 29 overseas postal ballots, distributed across 10 polling stations.

Meanwhile, Kabji-Talo constituency recorded a total of 11,289 registered voters, with 5,271 males and 6,018 females.

The constituency featured 2,350 in-country postal voters, with 1,191 males and 1,159 females. Additionally, 70 overseas postal voters participated, and the election took place across 17 polling stations.

Both constituencies accommodated 36 persons with disabilities (PWDs), underlining the commitment to inclusive participation.

Despite the logistical challenges, voters exhibited remarkable dedication. Gyetshe, a 51-year-old resident of Lungkha village, walked a considerable distance to cast his vote, expressing satisfaction in upholding this essential civic duty.

Choden and her sisters, traversing over three hours on foot to vote at the Mendhagang Gewog Centre, exemplified the deep-rooted loyalty prevalent among voters. Choden emphasised her unwavering allegiance to a specific party, a sentiment echoed by many in these elections.

Kencho Lham, 46, defied the scorching sun and lengthy queues, choosing to sit on the ground with her sisters as a testament to their commitment to the democratic process.

Looking ahead, Namgay Wangchuk of the PDP and  Gyambo Sithey (PhD) of the BTP will vie for victory in the general round from the Lingmukha-Toedwang constituency.

In the Kabji-Talo constituency, Namgyal Dorji of the PDP and Tshering Dorji of the BTP will engage in a competitive faceoff.