The DP’s internal rotational elections have ended all over the country, except in two places. The Nauroz festival among Kazakhs in Bayan-Ulgii province and the illness of the head of the Sukhbaatar district unit led to the postponement of the elections in these two places. DP Secretary General D.Erdenebat answers questions on the election and the disputes that have arisen.

How many people competed for how many seats?

A total of 120 people competed for 76 seats. One third of the National Consulting Bureau members are being replaced. Many young people will now join the forum that plays an important role in formulating the policy of the party.

How many constituencies faced disputes?

Four disputes are yet to be settled. Three are in UB, in the Chingeltei, Khan-Uul and Bayanzurkh districts, while the fourth is from Darkhan-Uul province. Such disputes are only natural.

Did the election expose the dissension in the party?

It is better to say that there is competition inside the DP, instead of saying dissension. A party will always have people with different opinions. So, I am not seeing the contest as a breakdown of unity. The whole thing was open and every dispute, argument and competition was public. Our party does not stifle internal criticism. If the disputes are not amicably settled, we may have to consider changing the related rules and procedures.

Is it not true that the Altangadas and Mongolian Democratic Union factions are bitterly fighting for power?

We don’t see this as a fight over party leadership or over party administration. I don’t think either fraction is trying to destroy the other. Changing the Party Head is not a big issue. There are many more important issues to be settled such as internal policy and structural issues. 

Will there be re-election in the disputed constituencies?

We have not talked about that as we hope everything will be settled according to the procedures in place.

Which big names have come to the National Consulting Bureau? And who failed?

We shall publish the results within this week.  MP Kh.Temuujin was unable to get many votes from Bayangol district. The elections are not meant to put individuals in a position of power. They are supposed to give representation to the wider body of members in matters of internal organization. 

Why is the National Consulting Bureau important?

It is very important in making policy. Its membership opens up a person’s political opportunities. A member of the bureau has better chances of becoming a Parliament member.