Gangtok: Prem Bahadur Bhandari of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has officially withdrawn his candidacy for the Soreng Chakung constituency in the upcoming by-elections set for November 13. His decision leaves Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) candidate Aditya Golay uncontested in the race.
Bhandari has also resigned from the primary membership of the SDF, expressing his discontent with the party’s leadership and support during his candidacy. In a statement, he accused the SDF and its President, Pawan Kumar Chamling, of neglecting his campaign after he was granted the party ticket. “After I was given the party ticket for the by-election, neither the party nor the president provided me with the necessary support. The SDF president was nowhere to be found during this crucial time, busy attending an award function in Nepal instead of focusing on the welfare of the party and the people of Soreng,” Bhandari said.
Bhandari recounted his efforts to reach party leaders, claiming they were often unreachable or unresponsive. “I tried to find out the whereabouts of the party leader during this critical period, but he went missing, leaving me and the voters of Soreng in a lurch,” he stated.
Expressing concern for the constituents, Bhandari, a local resident, emphasized the need to maintain harmony within the community. “Being a son of the soil with my entire family here, I cannot initiate enmity. To keep the people of Soreng happy, I have decided to withdraw my nomination and resign from the SDF. I believe the SDF is disorganized and lacks effective leadership. I declare the SDF as non-existent in Soreng and urge the people to leave such a party,” he added.
Looking ahead, Bhandari indicated his willingness to support a party that prioritizes the development of the constituency. “In the future, I will align with the party that is best for the development of the constituency and its people,” he concluded.
Bhandari’s withdrawal and resignation could have significant implications for the political landscape in Sikkim as the November by-elections approach.
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