Happy Bhutan goes to polls

– Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom jammed between India and China, yesterday voted in a national election guaranteed to usher in a new ruling party which must boost the economy without compromising the country’s fierce independent streak.

The country of 800 000 people, famed for its gross national happiness index, is holding its third national election since the monarchy initiated a transition to democracy in 2008.

Voters look forward to seeing government tackling problems including the country’s large foreign debt, mainly owed to India.

Results of the runoff vote – to be announced today – could see a government formed by a party only registered in 2013.

Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa narrowly led the first round of voting on September 15, just ahead of the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa, which won Bhutan’s first election in 2008. – AFP

Thimphu