October 11: The Election Commission said it will announce the dates for the National Council election by the end of this month. All 20 Dzongkhags have atleast one candidate, most have two or more. But concerns are being raised that the choice is still limited.

The National Council has an important role to play. It will act as a watchdog and monitor and review the function of the ruling and the opposition parties.

But the National Council has not attracted as many people as the National Assembly.

The National Council elections are scheduled in December. So far 65 candidates have declared their interest to contest the National Council election.

However concerns are being raised that the list is still short.

Tsirang dzongkhag has the highest number with seven candidates.

Wangdiphodrang comes second with five candidates.

Dagana, Samdrupjongkhar, Mongar, Paro, Tashigang, Sarpang, Samtse and Zhemgang have four candidates each.

Punakha, Tashiyangtse and Chukha have three each.

Haa, Bumthang, Lhuentse, Thimphu and Pemagatshel have two candidates each.

Gasa and Trongsa Dzongkhags have only one candidate as of now.

Election officials say it is not certain whether all the candidates will contest the election.

The National Council will have 25 members of which 20 will be directly elected by the people. His Majesty the King will nominate five eminent persons.