Voters in Trongsa’s Nubi-Tangsibji constituency will go to the polls on September 4, 2025, to elect a new Member of Parliament (MP) in a bye-election prompted by the voluntary resignation of former MP Tashi Dorji. His departure has necessitated the election of a replacement to represent the constituency for the remainder of the National Assembly’s current term.
In preparation, the Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB) has released comprehensive data on eligible voters, postal ballot (PB) registration, and deployment plans to ensure the smooth and transparent conduct of the bye-election.
According to the ECB, the Nubi-Tangsibji constituency has a total of 4,899 eligible voters, comprising 2,265 male and 2,634 female registered voters. This updated electoral roll will guide polling station arrangements, postal ballot management, and deployment of election officials across the gewogs.
For the upcoming bye-election, a total of 886 voters has registered for postal ballots, comprising 425 male and 461 female voters.
In Nubi Gewog, there are 3,188 eligible voters, with 1,455 male and 1,733 female voters. Of these, 543 voters have registered for postal ballots (255 male and 288 female).
In Tangsibji Gewog, the total number of eligible voters is 1,711, including 810 male and 901 female voters. Postal ballot registration from this gewog stands at 343 voters (170 male and 173 female).
During the last National Assembly (NA) General Election, the Nubi-Tangsibji constituency recorded a total of 4,777 eligible voters, consisting of 2,221 male and 2,556 female voters. Of these, 1,194 individuals opted for postal ballots, with 566 male and 628 female registrations. The latest figures for the upcoming bye-election show a modest increase in eligible voters but a noticeable decline in postal ballot applications, reflecting a shift in voter participation dynamics.
To ensure the smooth, efficient, and transparent conduct of the bye-election, the Election Commission of Bhutan (ECB) has announced the establishment of 10 polling stations across the constituency. These polling stations are strategically located to provide convenient access for voters from both gewogs.
The ECB has also confirmed the deployment of 93 officials and security personnel to oversee the electoral process. This deployment includes: 40 polling officials to manage polling stations, 2 counting personnel to handle ballot tabulation, 3 security officers and 30 security personnel to ensure law and order, 15 election management officials to coordinate logistics, and 3 officials at the Returning Officer’s office to oversee the overall process.
According to the Commission, these measures are designed to guarantee that the bye-election is conducted in full compliance with electoral laws, with adequate safeguards for security, transparency, and credibility.
The upcoming bye-election in Nubi-Tangsibji constituency will see a contest between two candidates representing major political parties. Tashi Samdrup, aged 53, is contesting on the ticket of the Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) and Phuntsho Dendup, aged 38, will represent the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Both candidates will be competing to secure the mandate of the voters and serve out the remaining three years of the current National Assembly term. The bye-election is expected to be closely watched, not only by constituents but also at the national level, as it provides an early indicator of party strength, voter sentiment, and political dynamics midway through the Assembly’s tenure.
For the people of Nubi-Tangsibji, the election offers an opportunity to reassess their representation in Parliament and choose a candidate who can effectively voice their concerns and contribute to the country’s legislative process.
Sangay Rabten from Thimphu
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