Several potential candidates have emerged as frontrunners for the top party job

Chencho Dema

Punakha—Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, former Prime Minister and President of Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT), stepping down from politics has left a leadership vacuum, raising questions about who will lead the party in the next election in 2028.

Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering is currently serving as the Governor of Gelephu Mindfulness City.

Several potential candidates have emerged as frontrunners, including Dasho Dr Tandi Dorji, the former foreign minister; Tenzin Lekphel, former general secretary of DNT; Dasho Dr Dechen Wangmo, the former health minister; and Dasho Sonam Kinga, the former Chairperson of the National Council and DNT’s candidate from Bartsham-Shongphu Constituency in 2023 elections.

Tenzin Lekphel, a founding member of the party, has stepped back from the electoral arena. Despite his key role in DNT, he chose not to contest the 2023 elections, also partly because he did not win a seat in previous contests. However, his involvement in the party remains critical, and his expertise in strategy has kept him a respected figure.

Dasho Dr Dechen Wangmo currently holds an important position with the PEMA Secretariat. Her potential candidacy as a female leader raises concerns about the party’s chances in the elections, given Bhutan’s electoral history.

Women leaders in the country have struggled to secure broad support, with figures such as Dasho Dorji Choden, Dasho Neten Zangmo, and Lily Wangchuk, all failing to win in past elections. These precedents could influence DNT’s choice as it contemplates the leadership role.

Once a prominent figure within DNT, Dasho Sonam Kinga appears less likely to lead the party. Sources suggested he had a fallout with the DNT party during the 2023 elections, making him an unlikely option.

Given these dynamics, Dasho Dr Tandi Dorji stands out as the most likely candidate to lead DNT in 2028.

A senior member with extensive political career, his experience as a former minister positions him as a strong contender. His leadership ability and political background make him a natural choice to fill the leadership void in DNT.

“I am not sure who will be the next president, but in the interim, Dr. Tandi Dorji will have to take the lead and manage the party’s day-to-day affairs,” Dasho Dr Lotey Tshering said.

He also acknowledged Tenzin Lekphel’s crucial role in keeping the party alive and active.

Speaking to Kuensel, Tenzin Lekphel, founder of DNT emphasised DNT’s commitment to democratic values. “We are driven by our commitment to serve the nation, not just seek electoral victories.”

He highlighted the party’s focus on sustaining its operations and supporting national initiatives while maintaining its dedication to democratic principles.

He said that DNT is spoil for choice and does not face a dearth of capable leaders. “We will decide when time comes for the party to determine a leader for the upcoming elections,” he said.

DNT prides itself on the recognition of its members, including prestigious honours like the Lungmar, Bura Marp, and the recent white scarf and patang.

His Majesty the King also conferred the prestigious Druk Thuksey on DNT during the 2023 National Day.

However, Tenzin Lekphel said that despite these precious awards, the party remains mindful in ensuring such recognitions are not diluted by making it as one of the qualifications to determine a political party leadership. “At the party level, all candidates are the same in capabilities and commitment,” he said.

Further he added DNT will present themselves with renewed commitment during the 2028 elections. “Knowing the implications of the two recurring political parties in the Parliament, we came about to offer the people of Bhutan the third choice during the 2013 elections. This time too, we will do our best to offer our voters that reliable choice to take our nation forward,” he said.

Meanwhile, Druk Thuendrel Tshogpa (DTT) has also undergone a leadership transition, with the presidency being handed over to the vice president Chenga Tshering (PhD) after Kinga Tshering the president of the party stepped down. This shift marks a new phase for the party, as Chenga takes on the responsibility of steering it forward.

Speaking to Kuensel, Chenga Tshering confirmed that he is currently serving as the interim president of the party. “I have no information on whether Kinga Tshering has officially resigned from politics or if he plans to return,” he said.

He added that Kinga Tshering wishes to remain apolitical for the time being and focus on his work.

Chenga Tshering further said that the decision to appoint a new president will ultimately rest with the party coordinators. “For now, I am keeping the party afloat, and DTT will make a comeback in 2028,” he said.