Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – The ruling Mongolian People’s Party managed to maintain a narrow majority in the national parliament after facing a challenge from the opposition Democratic Party, as per initial results disclosed on Saturday. The outcome signals a shift from the party’s strong performance in the previous election, where they claimed a significant portion of the seats in the smaller 76-seat parliament of 2020. In the current expanded 162-seat parliament, their dominance has waned.
Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai announced to the press early Saturday that his Mongolian People’s Party secured 68 to 70 seats out of the 126 in parliament. The election marked an increase of 50 seats from the previous election, allowing other political parties, notably the Democratic Party, to make substantial gains amidst voter discontent.
Experts note that the Democratic Party’s resurgence in the election reflects a desire for change in leadership rather than a shift in policies. Despite internal issues and lackluster campaigning, the party’s strong showing underscores a yearning for new faces in government.
Voter turnout, reaching 69.3% by the time polling stations closed, demonstrated a significant level of engagement among the electorate. Concerns over corruption, unemployment, inflation, and environmental challenges, including severe weather and drought affecting livestock herders, emerged as key issues driving voter sentiment.
As Mongolia, with a population of 3.4 million, continues to navigate its democracy, citizens remain wary of political institutions seen as prioritizing self-interest over national welfare. The People’s Party acknowledges these challenges but maintains that other political entities share responsibility for the disillusionment among the populace.
The election, held against the backdrop of economic uncertainties compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and global geopolitical tensions, represents a critical juncture for Mongolia. The emergence of alternative parties and the electorate’s demand for greater accountability and transparency reflect a growing appetite for change in a country grappling with longstanding governance issues.