The people of Bhutan have voted in their first parliamentary polls. The election marks a crucial step in the country’s transition from absolute monarchy to democracy. The process of democratisation was proposed by the royal family itself. Two parties contested the polls: the Bhutan United Party and the People's Democratic Party. Both parties have promised to boost growth and development.
Bhutanese King Jigme Singye Wangchuk has introduced a series of political reforms since 1998Image: AP
