AMN / GANGTOK
A delegation of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, SKM led by its president Prem Singh Golay yesterday called on the Governor, Ganga Prasad, and staked claim to form the new government in the state. Mr Golay was, however, tight-lipped about whom to elect the Leader of the Legislative Party.
The SKM was founded in 2013. The party won 10 seats in 2014. This time, out of 32 seats, SKM won 17 giving it a clear majority to form the next government. The 5-term ruling party Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) suffered a narrow defeat, winning 15 seats.
Speaking to media at the Raj Bhawan in Gangtok after meeting the Governor, Prem Singh Golay said the party has requested the Governor to invite them to form the next government. SKM sources said the party MLAs have authorised Mr. Golay to decide the name of the new Chief Minister.
Our correspondent reports that Governor Ganga Prasad may take the opinion of Constitutional or legal experts before inviting Prem Singh Golay to form the next government. Mr. Golay was convicted in a corruption case. He was jailed for one year and debarred from contesting election for 6 years. Hence, he could not contest the Assembly election.