Most of the members of the new upper house are in their twenties and thirties. Some just passed out of college or university and this is their first proper job. The country witnessed its first democratic polls on Monday. 15 people have been elected as the members of the 25 member National Council. Three women are among the winners. Another round of elections for the upper house will be held on Jan. 29 in the five remaining districts where no candidates were found in time. The remaining five members will be chosen by the King.

Key move towards democracy

Though the turnout of the voters was just about 55 percent, the election commission called the elections a great success. The polls are also seen as a key step towards constitutional democracy in the largely Buddhist country, which has been ruled by absolute monarchy for almost a century.

The transformation began in December 2006 when former King Jigme Singhye Wangchuck announced he would hand over his kingdom to his son. He also circulated a draft constitution and decided to have an elected government. The king will remain head of state, but the parliament will have the power to impeach him.

Set for general elections

The historic vote for the 75 seat lower house or National assembly will be held this year in February and March. Newly formed political parties in the country will be able to take part in it.

There have been mixed responses among the population to the political reforms. The monarchy remains popular and some citizens say they are quite happy with the way things are. While others are excited about the democratic changes and say they are looking forward to join the modern world.