DPT's Yeshi Zimba vs PDP's Sonam Tobgay

Candidates contesting a seat in the National Assembly






DPT's Yeshi Zimba(former Trade Minister)












1. Your favourite proverb?
You can fool some of the people all the time and all the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.

2. What is democracy?
It is the rule by the people through fair and just election of representatives to the Parliament. Elections must be based upon free choice, secret ballot and not influenced by intimidation, false promises, money power or deceit.
3. What is the role of a parliamentarian?
Ensure good governance – so that the government is just, effective, inclusive and ensures the well being of the people while strengthening the peace and security of the nation. Even an ordinary MP must set high moral standards, live a principled life and lead by example.

4. Which ministry would you like to head, given a chance?
The Education Ministry.

5. If you become the Prime Minister, what is the most pressing problem you would like to address?
The growing income disparity.

6. How do you intend to address the problem?
By ensuring that all development policies are inclusive and promote equal opportunity for all citizens.

7. Why did you join politics?
To ensure that the institution of democracy is nurtured, strengthened and guided along the right path at this very critical juncture in our history.

8. Do you think you will win?
I am confident if the people of my constituency vote according to their true convictions and principles, and are not influenced by other considerations.

9. What will you do if you lose?
I will have no regrets at all.

10. What do you think about your opponent?
My opponent is well supported by friends and family.

11. Most important skill to be a good politician?
To have the ability at all times to distinguish between what is right and wrong. There is always the danger and temptation to try to win by ‘hook’ or by ‘crook’.

12. Your role model?
The 4th Druk Gyalpo and Abraham Lincoln.

13. The last book you read?
“Natural Great Perfection” by Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche

14. “In politics, nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way.” Comment?
Whatever happens is the result of our own actions and whatever we do, will someday catch up with us.

15. Where would you like to see Bhutan 10 years from now?
A role model for the world as a country that has managed to truly realize Gross National Happiness. Most important of all, I would like to see the institutionalization of a good political system that promotes a just and equitable society.

16. What is the role of media in democracy?
To play a constructive role in democracy. People must be informed, provide space for people’s voice. Dirty politics can be curbed and good politics promoted through unbiased information provided by the media.

The media in Bhutan at this critical time needs to be proactive and aware of what is happening in the political arena. Instead of waiting for written complaints with proof, the media should go out and meet people – the politicians as well as the electorate. Sometimes, everyone knows what is happening but no worthwhile report appears in the papers.

17. Is Bhutanese politics getting dirty?
It appears that, unfortunate as it is, dirty politics has already entered Bhutan. There are allegations of wrongdoing. It is common knowledge that overzealous party workers have made the people feel that membership forms are legally binding ‘genja’ and that they no longer have the right to vote as they like. It seems money power and wild promises are going to carry the day.






PDP's Sonam Tobgay











1. Your favourite proverb?
None – I don’t rely on proverbs to get my point across.

2. What is democracy?
Ideally, it is a form of government that provides the people an opportunity to be actively engaged in all decisions that affect their lives.

3. What is the role of a parliamentarian?
To legislate intelligently on behalf of the people – keeping in mind national interests and the well being of every citizen.

4. Which ministry would you like to head given a chance?
Nothing should be left to chance – especially the selection of our ministers. A minister cannot be bureaucratic, a technocrat, or an autocrat - but someone who can inspire and motivate the bureaucracy to think innovatively and provide prompt and efficient services.

5. If you become Prime Minister, what is the most pressing problem you would like to address?
We must refrain from romantic and grandiose notions of development before first taking care of the most basic needs of our people – provision of safe drinking water is an excellent example.

6. How do you intend to address the problem/issue?
By first acknowledging that these problems exist!

7. Why did you join politics?
My conscience did not permit me otherwise.

8. Do you think you will win? How would you rate your chances of winning on a 1-10 scale?
Nothing should be left to chance. I will work hard to ensure victory.

9. What will you do if you lose?
Continue living with dignity.

10. What do you think about your opponent?
He has served the nation – to the best of his abilities - for many years both as a bureaucrat and minister.

11. What, according to you, is the most important skill to be a good politician?
Wisdom and Compassion.

12. Who is your role model?
Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo.

13. What was the last book you read?
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation by Gampopa.

14. “In politics, nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way.” Comment?
In life nothing happens by accident – we are all trapped in Samsara as a result of our own actions.

15. Where would you like to see Bhutan ten years from now?
A strong and secure nation where peace and prosperity flourish.

16. What is the role of media in democracy?
It is the role of the Fourth Estate to keep the nation informed – preferably in a fair and responsible manner.

17. Is Bhutanese politics getting dirty?
I hope that it remains as pristine as our environment.

Source : kuenselonline.com