Bhutan votes in 2nd ever parliamentary poll

GAUHATI, India: People in the tiny Himalayan nation of Bhutan are cementing their young democracy by voting in the nation’s second parliamentary election.

The nation of 700,000 had its first election in 2008 after the king voluntarily reduced the monarchy’s role in running the country.

The voting Tuesday was for the 25-member upper house. Polls for the more influential lower house are expected in June.

A royal decree asked “all voters to take their right and duty seriously.”

Results are expected Wednesday.