Gangtok: The SDF (Sikkim Democratic Front) party declared 26 assembly candidates with 10 being former legislators. Former 2-time Lok Sabha MP Prem Das Rai has once again secured the MP ticket.
Former Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling will be contesting from the Poklok Kamrang constituency, which he had relinquished for by-elections in 2019. He was the sitting legislator from Namchi Singhithang, where now Bimal Rai has been given the ticket.
Sikkim Krantikari Morcha’s rebel legislator Mani Kumar Sharma has secured a ticket from his home constituency in Singtam Khamdong.
Bhaichung Bhutia who joined SDF in November last year, has secured his native Barfung constituency. Former Gangtok Municipal Commissioner Ashish Rai, who was denied a ticket in 2019, returned to the party last year having secured the coveted Arithang constituency as an SDF candidate for the 2024 elections.
Other former SDF legislators to secure a ticket include PN Sherpa from Daramdin constituency, Norzang Lepcha from Tumin Lingee, Tshering Wangdi Lepcha from Gnathang Machong, Mechung Bhutia from Martam Rumtek, Pintso Chopel Lepcha from Gangtok, DB Thapa Mangar from Upper Burtuk, Sonam Gyatso Lepcha from Dzongu, Hishey Lachungpa from Lachen Mangan, and Acharya Tshering Lama from the non-territorial Sangha seat.
SDF spokespersons JB Darnal and MK Subba have secured Zoom Salghari and Yangang Rangrang constituencies. While Dr AD Subba, a veteran politician has secured the Soreng Chakung constituency competing against Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay for the seat.
Among the new candidates declared include Meyong Gyatso Bhutia from Yuksom Tashiding, Kesham Limboo from Yangthang, Sonam Palden Bhutia from Rinchenpong, Nirmal Kumar Pradhan from Melli, Dr. Sangita Bhandari from Rhenock, MK Gurung from Chujachen, CB Chettri from Upper Tadong, and Gnawo Chopel Lepcha from Kabi Lungchok.
Meanwhile, SKM party’s ticket contender Tenzing Lamtha secured Shyari constituency with SDF on Monday evening. Lamtha was denied a ticket by SKM in favour of sitting legislator Kunga Nima Lepcha this time, as well as in 2019.
Also Read: Manipur body slams ‘encroachment’ by Nagaland’s Angami tribe