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

Bhutan: Looking back ...moving ahead

Some call it the dawn of a beginning, some, the end of an era. Yesterday after the handing taking ceremony of the reins of the government from Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk to Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji in the Tashichhodzong, the ten ministers paused to share their experiences and expectations with Kuensel.

Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba

The trade and industry minister, Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba, has submitted his resignation to join the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT). He will contest from the lower Thimphu constituency.

“Looking back, Bhutan has come a long way under His Majesty’s dynamic leadership. After 1998 we experimented a new system where responsibility was gradually handed over to the people. I feel we have learned enough to forge ahead to a better future,” said Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba. “I think the experience we have gained over the last couple of years has shown us what opportunities and problems lies ahead,” he said.

He said that the experience under the leadership of His Majesty the King has prepared them to move into a fully democratic government. “What we need to know now is that the entire responsibilities rest with the people of Bhutan.”

Looking ahead, the minister said that the responsibilities of the ministers would be same, but the way it would be exercised would be different. “In the past we had His Majesty the King to fall back on and seek guidance and advice, but now this is something that we ourselves will have to exercise,” he said.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk

The outgoing prime minister had joined the DPT and would contest from the Lamgong/Wangchang constituency in Paro.

“This is the end of one era and beginning of another,” said Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk from Dopshari, Paro. “I am happy that I am a part of both the eras.”

Sharing his experience, the minister said that he had the opportunity to serve His Majesty the King for 33 years. “I am satisfied that I have completed my service and contributed in my own little ways to the development of Bhutan,” he said.

The minister said that he had fulfilled in his modest ways, the aspirations of the people and expressed his happiness at the opportunity to serve and take part in the democratic process. “I hope from now on I can live up to the expectations of the people and in any way possible, serve the tsa-wa-sum.”

Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup

The mentor of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), agriculture minister, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup, will contest from the Kabji/Talo constituency in Punakha.

“I was honoured when I was nominated as one of the ministers in 1998 and today I look back with satisfaction,” said Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup. “Both the ministries (health and education and agriculture), I served, provided me with opportunity for discovering both problems and solutions.”

Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup said that it was a rich experience working together with people while in the agriculture and the then health and education ministry. He credited the success in the ministries to all the staff of the two ministries.

Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup said that post 2008 would not be much different. “Personally I feel that there will be no big changes. In the past His Majesty went to the people to discuss problems and issues during the Plan meetings seeking views of the people,” he said. “After 2008, the only difference would be that instead of the King going to the people, people will come forward through their constituencies to demand for developments and needs.”

Lyonpo Jigmi Y Thinley

The campaign coordinator of DPT, home minister, Lyonpo Jigmi Y Thinley will contest from Nanong/Shumar constituency in Pemagatshel.

“It is in many ways a very sad day today because today marks the true end of a golden era under the leadership and guidance of His Majesty the fourth Druk Gyalpo,” said the home minister, Lyonpo Jigmi Y Thinley. “Today also brings to a formal end of the machinery that was established by the Fourth Druk Gyalpo where we were a part of the machinery.”

Lyonpo Jigmi Y Thinley describes his tenure in the government as the golden years and said it certainly was a fulfilling and satisfying period. “I have had a fulfilling 33 years serving in the golden period,” he said.

“Now we have to look in to the future and we have decided to participate in another form and another role. It is a role I am not prepared and I cannot say how well my colleagues are prepared for the change of role from a minister to a political animal,” said the minister. “Our duties and responsibilities will be different and we have taken the challenge and the opportunity to do the best.”

I cannot say how well we might succeed in fulfilling the aspirations of our fourth Druk Gyalpo and what people expect, but in the next few months we wish to educate ourselves and discover what people actually want, the minister said. “It is a challenge that we have taken and we will do our best.”

Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu

“The work as a minister was challenging, but a rewarding and satisfying experience,” said the finance minister, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu who will contest from Bartsham/Shongphu constituency in Trashigang for DPT.

Describing his tenure as a successful and satisfying period, the minister said that there was gradual and positive change in the government. “There was no radical changes from what was there before 1998, but our government has grown beyond recognition and we have a strong civil service who can shoulder any responsibility,” he said.

“I feel sad, but at the same time I feel a big burden has been lifted off my shoulder.”

Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu feels that the new government will be more answerable to the people as they would be elected by the people themselves.

“There will be new challenges. The views of the government will have to be in line with that of the people. But whichever government comes into power, there will be nothing that the government cannot overcome with the guidance of His Majesty.”

Lyonpo Jigmi Singay

A high profile candidate of PDP, Lyonpo Jigmi Singay will contest from Mongar constituency.

“Coming from a simple family background and coming this far with the trust and confidence bestowed on me by His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and the National Assembly members, its been a great experience, both learning and as a member of a team of experienced ministers,” he said.

Lyonpo Jigmi Singay said that it was an honour to remember to be a part of a system that had continuously been evolving, maturing, and developing. “I feel happy for whatever I contributed as a minister,” he said.

Lyonpo Jigmi Singay said that it is both exciting and challenging to represent the people, their concern and their views in the new political system

Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering

“My experience in the government has been exhilarating and I would not want to change a thing because I have gained so many valuable experiences serving the King and the country,” said Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering.

From now on, the roles and responsibilities would change and joining politics will be challenging for all of us who have decided to participate in the democratic process, according to the minister. “The duties and responsibilities would be extremely different and challenging but it is the challenge that we have decided to take,” he said. “This is what our His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo wanted and that is what our dynamic and passionate His Majesty the Fifth King wishes.”

Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering who will contest from Upper Thimphu constituency for DPT said that the future as a politician is uncertain but the uncertainty makes it more challenging.

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji, who was appointed the care taker prime minister yesterday, describes the opportunity to serve the country for the second time as an honour. “It is a big responsibility to run the government when profound political changes are taking place, said Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji.

The initiative has come from the throne and it is the duty of each one of us to make the democratic process in Bhutan a success. “It is a big reason to feel humbled and honoured because I can contribute to the process in my humble ways.”

Looking back, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said that it was the rarest opportunity to serve the country, people and the King during a period when significant changes were happening in the country. “We have achieved so much under the wisdom and leadership of His Majesty the King,” he said. “From a country not many knew, Bhutan has become one of the most popular countries because of our sound policies, His Majesty’s policy of Gross National Happiness and the democratisation process, an initiative which came from the Throne.”

“The change within such a short span of time is tremendous, which I never dreamt of.” Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji is confident that the democratisation process would succeed. “The foundation has been laid by the King and all we have to do is build on that foundation,” he said. “People’s apprehension is misplaced. I am confident that the democratic process would succeed.”

The minister ruled out interest in politics, but said that he would continue to serve the King, country and the people in his own capacity.

Lyonpo Leki Dorji

The information and communication minister, Lyonpo Leki Dorji is one of the three ministers who have not joined politics.

The minister said that Bhutan has achieved tremendous development in a short span of time. “In the information section, Bhutan has changed from a gossip society to an information savvy country,” he said. “It is an honour to have been a part of the great change.”

Lyonpo Leki Dorji believes that one need not join politics to serve the people and the country. “One can be a part of civil society and still serve the people and the government,” he said. The minister believes that the political process would succeed in Bhutan because it was a culmination of a gradual and long process initiated as far back as 1953 when the Third Druk Gyalpo instituted the National Assembly.

“We did not have political parties, but the policy empowered the people even in the past,” he said. Lyonpo Leki Dorji said the greatest challenge of the political process is making people understand the process and having the right people. “If they join for the sake of position and perks it is a wrong profession. Politics is about building trust and confidence with the people, about understanding the needs of the people and translating them into programmes.”

The minister also said that people need to be educated on the political process. “We need lot of political education. Until this is achieved we will not have real democracy in essence. People have to understand what or why they are voting.”

Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho

The education minister, Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho, had decided not to take part in politics. However, he said that he would continue serving the government and people in every possible way.

“I will always be available in case the country and the government requires my service,” he said. Sharing his experiences, Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho said that since he joined the service in 1976, he had, in every way, an enriching experience serving the King and the country.

Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho is one of the three ministers who will serve under the care taker government. “We have reached a crucial juncture and it is a challenging period for me and my colleagues to make sure that the democratisation process succeeds.”

Source : Kuenselonline