FOURTH ELECTIONS OF BHUTAN 

2. Electoral System of Bhutan

• In 2008, Bhutan underwent a significant transformation from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, establishing a parliamentary government. This marked a pivotal shift in the political structure of the country.
• The King of Bhutan serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister holds the position of the head of the government. This dual leadership structure reflects the balance between traditional monarchy and modern governance.
• The Parliament of Bhutan comprises three key components – the King of Bhutan, the National Council (upper house), and the National Assembly (lower house). This tripartite structure is designed to ensure a comprehensive representation of Bhutanese interests.

Two-Tiered Election System: Elections in Bhutan, particularly for the National Assembly, follow a two-tiered system. The process involves a primary round followed by general elections.

1. All registered political parties participate in the primary round of elections. The primary round serves as a selection process, determining the two parties with the highest votes.
2. The top two voted parties from the primary round proceed to the general elections. The general elections play a crucial role in deciding the ruling party and the opposition party.

• In the primary round, all five registered parties in Bhutan contest for votes. The primary round narrows down the field to the two most favoured parties.
• In a specific instance, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Bhutan Peace and Prosperity Party (BTP) secured the highest votes of 42.53% and 19.58%, respectively, in the primary round.
• The two-tiered election system ensures a competitive and inclusive process. It allows for broad participation in the initial stage, followed by a focused competition between the top contenders in the general elections.
• Bhutan has experienced four elections since the constitutional transition in 2008, showcasing the evolving democratic landscape of the country.

3. Key Issues in Bhutan's Elections

Bhutan's unique approach to governance centred around Gross National Happiness (GNH), has been a consistent theme in all elections.

Economic Challenges

• The economy emerged as a focal point in the fourth round of elections. With an average economic growth of 1.6% over the past five years, addressing economic challenges became a primary concern.
• The youth unemployment rate, standing at 28.6% in 2022, posed a significant challenge, highlighting the need for strategies to create employment opportunities for the younger population.
• Stagnation in the private sector, compounded by the impact of the pandemic, and a decline in the tourism sector added to the economic woes.
• Bhutan's total debt reaching 124.5% of its GDP raised concerns about financial sustainability, with implications for the country's economic resilience.
• Depleting foreign reserves, approaching the constitutional limit, created urgency for economic management. In 2023, reserves declined to $689 million, posing challenges for essential imports.

Demographic Challenges

• The elections brought attention to the escalating issue of mass migration, leading to a shortage of manpower and impacting various sectors, including public services.
• High-skilled individuals leaving the country for better educational and job opportunities abroad contributed to a significant brain drain, affecting the domestic talent pool.
• Declining fertility rates raised concerns about demographic sustainability, prompting the need for policies to address population challenges.

Decline in Voter Turnout

• The elections witnessed a notable decline in voter turnout compared to the 2018 elections. In 2018, the turnout for the primary round and general elections stood at 66.36% and 71.46%, respectively, while in 2023-24, the figures dropped to 63% and 65.6%.
• The decrease in voter turnout raised questions about civic engagement and public participation in the democratic process, warranting attention for future electoral strategies.

4. Challenges and Promises for Bhutan's New Government

The recent Bhutanese elections saw the People's Democratic Party (PDP) emerge victorious, securing a mandate to navigate the country's current economic and demographic challenges. With President Tshering Tobgay set to return as Prime Minister for a second term, Bhutan stands at a crucial crossroads.

Challenges to Tackle

• Bhutan's stagnant economic growth needs urgent attention. Addressing high youth unemployment, reviving the private sector, and boosting tourism are key priorities.
• Reducing the high debt-to-GDP ratio and stabilizing foreign reserves will be crucial for ensuring fiscal sustainability.
• Addressing brain drain and promoting skill development among youth are essential for long-term economic growth.
• Encouraging higher fertility rates and stemming population outflow will require targeted policies and strategies.
• The decline in voter turnout necessitates efforts to re-engage citizens and strengthen their trust in the democratic process.

Promises for a Better Druk Yul

• The party's success in stabilizing the economy during its previous term (2013-2018) offers some hope for addressing the current challenges.
• President Tobgay's return brings experience and leadership qualities crucial for tackling complex issues.
• The PDP's focus on private sector development, job creation, and infrastructure improvement could spur economic growth.
• The party's emphasis on education, healthcare, and environmental protection aligns with Bhutan's GNH philosophy.
• The new government presents an opportunity for fresh ideas and innovative solutions to address Bhutan's unique challenges.

Bhutan's scenario during the monarchy era, spanning centuries until 2008, was marked by a distinct blend of cultural traditions, political stability, and gradual development.

Political System

• The Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) held absolute power, acting as the head of state and government, with a dual role as religious leader.
• Public involvement in decision-making was restricted, with a focus on maintaining social order and stability.
• A hierarchical social structure prevailed, with land ownership and privileges concentrated among the nobility and clergy.
• Bhutan remained largely isolated from the outside world, preserving its unique culture and traditions but limiting exposure to global trends and developments.

Economic Development

• Agriculture formed the backbone of the economy, with limited industrialization or infrastructure development.
• Trade with neighbouring countries, particularly India, was controlled, restricting economic growth and diversification.
• Emphasis was placed on local production and resource management, fostering a degree of self-reliance but also hindering economic progress.
• Education and healthcare services were rudimentary, particularly in rural areas, impacting social development and human capital formation.

Social and Cultural Life

• Mahayana Buddhism permeated Bhutanese society, shaping cultural practices, values, and morality.
• Traditional customs, festivals, and dress codes were preserved, fostering a strong sense of cultural identity.
• Modern influences were gradually adopted, but at a slower pace compared to other countries, maintaining a distinct cultural character.
• The absolute monarchy limited individual freedoms, including freedom of speech and movement, compared to democratic systems.

Challenges and Transition

• Bhutan's isolation and limited economic development created a gap compared to other countries in the region.
• Younger generations increasingly sought educational and professional opportunities abroad, highlighting the need for modernization and reforms.
•  Internal and external pressures mounted for greater political participation and democratic reforms.
• In 2008, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk initiated a peaceful transition to a constitutional monarchy, establishing a democratically elected parliament and government.