Bhutan Kuen-Nyam Party (BKP) has nominated a former banker, Basant Rana as its candidate from Shompangkha constituency in Sarpang.

The 48-year-old from Gakidling gewog has worked with the Bank of Bhutan for 23 years.  He last served as the customer relationship manager. He has a Bachelors of Arts with a major in economics from Sherubtse College.

He said that democracy is a gift from the throne and that election is a way to be a part of the noble vision. “I want to be a part of the whole democratic governance process to represent local needs in national context.”

Basant Rana said he chose BKP, as the party’s principles are best suited for good governance under the leadership of Dasho Neten Zangmo. “The party is composed of multidimensional talents and intellectuals who are committed to their vision and determined to achieve results.”

Having knowledge and experience in the financial sector, he said that the sector is his biggest strength. “I have worked with the people, private entrepreneurs, corporate bodies, and Foreign Direct Investments closely.”

His area of focus is developing the economy in his constituency through agriculture, livestock, and income opportunities. Besides development of the economy, he said that the focus is also on strengthening communication.

“I hope to encourage people especially the youth and rural segments of my constituency to not only strive to become sufficient but also to be enterprising to reduce rural urban migration, poverty and unemployment,” Basant Rana said.

He said that he understands the different needs and aspirations of different groups of people encompassing domestic needs, education ambitions and agricultural needs.

Rinchen Zangmo