The election revolved around significant economic challenges that have raised doubts about the Himalayan kingdom's longstanding emphasis on "Gross National Happiness" over growth.

Bhutan, positioned between the world's two most populous countries, China and India, observed the vote with great interest, given the strategic contested border zones.

Tobgay, the leader of the liberal People's Democratic Party (PDP) and former prime minister of the Himalayan kingdom from 2013 to 2018, secured 30 out of 47 seats in Tuesday's election, as per official figures.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bhutan's crucial trading partner, extended his "heartiest congratulations to my friend" Tobgay for his victory, as mentioned in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Tobgay, pledging to enhance ties with India, including the development of rail links, expressed gratitude to Modi, stating, "I too look forward to working closely again with you to nurture and strengthen the unique bonds of friendship and cooperation that our nations enjoy."

May be an image of 10 people, Shwedagon Pagoda and text
Bhutanese people in traditional attire queue up to cast their votes in the national elections in Deothang, Bhutan [Anupam Nath/AP]

Bhutan, a landlocked mountain nation with a population of about 800,000 people, roughly the size of Switzerland, faces the challenges of chronic youth unemployment and a brain drain, which were significant concerns for voters.

Tobgay, a 58-year-old former civil servant and passionate conservation advocate with degrees from the University of Pittsburgh and Harvard, previously served as the leader of the opposition in Bhutan's inaugural parliament in 2008.

Campaigning focused on Bhutan's "unprecedented economic challenges and mass exodus," with Tobgay remaining committed to the constitutionally enshrined philosophy of a government measuring success by the "happiness and well-being of the people."

Youth unemployment, standing at 29 percent according to the World Bank, and sluggish economic growth averaging 1.7 percent over the past five years were central issues.

Voters expressed hope that the government, particularly the winning party, would stimulate the economy to address the high unemployment rate, especially among the youth. A record number of young citizens seeking better opportunities abroad, with Australia as their top destination, underscored the urgency of economic revitalization.

As 55-year-old housewife Dechen Wangmo put it, "From the winning party, I hope they would serve wholeheartedly and lead the country to prosperity. The poor people should benefit the most."

 

BOB Post