Kathmandu (AsiaNews) - The victory by the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Bhutan's parliamentary elections has brought hope to Bhutanese refugees in Nepal. They were forced to leave their country in 1989 for active opposition against the country's old regime. A majority of seats in National Assembly went to the PDP, which during the election campaign promised to let the exiles return.
"The elections have favored us," said Bhampa Rai, leader of some 32,000 Bhutanese who live in eastern Nepal. "Among those elected there are even seven deputies of Nepali origin. Their first move will be to find a way to repatriate us".
"I think it's time to see our dreams become reality," said Jasoda Budhatoki, another community leader.
About 120,000 Bhutanese fled their homes to avoid death or jail following clashes in 1989 between the old absolutist monarchy and pro-democracy groups.
Over the years, approximately 75,000 found refuge in Europe, Americas and Australia. Others fled to India or China. Approximately 35,000 people are still waiting to go home.
For Budhatoki, "We are Bhutanese and our repatriation is the only long-term solution. We love our land the way one loves one's mother. Bhutan is our motherland and we want to live and die there."
Newly elected lawmaker Rituraj Chetri confirmed the exiles' hope. "Our victory will bring great changes to the country [. . .] and we will do our best to repatriate the Bhutanese" exiles.
After its victory, PDP Secretary General Sonam Jatsho said, "We shall empower people with democracy, freedom and rights. And this will create an environment conducive to the repatriation of Bhutanese refugees."
