September 03:The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa met with the business community members in Thimphu on Saturday. The meeting follows an announcement from the election commission that party workers may make familiarization visits.

Party workers are however not allowed to campaign. During the meeting, the President of Druk Phuensum Tshogpa explained the importance of the people’s participation in the democratic process.

Lyonpo Jigme Y Thinley also explained the party’s policies, objectives, and vision. He said people residing in Thimphu should guide those living in rural areas.

He urged them to use their vote wisely without fear or favour and said they must vote for whoever they feel will serve the people and the country. Because it is a secret ballot, there is no way anybody can find who they have voted for, he said.

Lyonpo Jigme Y Thinley said while the party has a strong foundation, it is constrained by shortage of funds. The party president urged the business community members to make voluntary contributions and support party politics.

Aspiring politicians described familiarization tours as visits to the constituency to get to know the people and introduce themselves and the party. Campaigning, they said is making promises and seeking votes directly.