All SKM candidates elected unopposed in municipal elections; party congratulates

KUNAL RAI

GANGTOK,: The ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) on Saturday congratulated all its candidates contesting the 2026 municipal elections in the State on being elected unopposed.

Addressing a press conference here, party spokesperson Jacob Khaling attributed the victory to the leadership of party president and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

“Under the leadership of our party president-cum-chief minister, 100 per cent of SKM candidates contesting the municipal elections have been elected uncontested. On behalf of the victorious candidates, we extend our gratitude to him,” Khaling said.

Khaling also criticised opposition parties for not participating in the municipal polls, alleging they lack vision and an agenda for the State’s holistic development. “SKM has consistently participated in elections at all levels, including panchayat, municipal and general elections, even prior to its formal formation,” said Khaling describing elections as a “festival of democracy.”

He also urged newly elected municipal representatives to discharge their duties with honesty and commitment.

The spokesperson also welcomed newly appointed women spokespersons of the party, stating their involvement would strengthen the party’s outreach at the grassroots level.

Burtuk MLA Kala Rai thanked the Chief Minister and party president for entrusting her with the responsibility of party spokesperson and assured that she would carry out her duties sincerely. Other newly appointed spokespersons Anjana Sharma and Tshering Doma Bhutia also expressed gratitude to the party leadership.

On the SKM’s alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Khaling said the partnership extends beyond the State as both parties are part of the NDA at the Centre. He stated that the seat-sharing decisions in the municipal elections were made in line with alliance commitments.

Other party leaders present at the press conference were spokespersons Bikash Basnet, Yougen Tamang, Sanjay Dilpali Rai and Krishna Lepcha.