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Politics & Government Guide in Bhutan

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a bicameral parliament and multi-party democracy established in 2008. The People's Democratic Party holds a majority in the National Assembly following the 2024 elections, with Tshering Tobgay serving as Prime Minister. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck remains head of state, overseeing a stable Westminster-style system.

Government Type

Constitutional Monarchy

Legal System

Mixed legal system of Buddhist religious law and English common law

Head of State

King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck(since 2006)

Head of Government

Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay(People's Democratic Party)since 2024

Legislature

Type:bicameral
Upper House:National Council (25 seats)
Lower House:National Assembly (47 seats)

Major Political Parties

People's Democratic Party(PDP)

Center-left

30 seats
Bhutan Tendrel Party(BTP)

Center-right

17 seats

Voting Rights

Citizens aged 18 and above have full voting rights in national and local elections

Recent Developments

  • National Assembly elections held on January 9, 2024, with PDP winning 30 seats and BTP forming opposition with 17 seats
  • Tshering Tobgay sworn in as Prime Minister for second term on January 28, 2024
  • Bhutan's democracy consolidated through credible elections and transfers of power since 2008
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal
Constitution2008
Districts20