Political Heat Intensifies as Parties Gear Up for By-elections in Ilam and Bajhang

The political landscape in Ilam and Bajhang is bustling with activity as parties brace themselves for the upcoming by-elections scheduled for April 27. The elections are set to fill the void left by the passing of CPN-UML leader Subas Nembang in Ilam-2 and to elect a Provincial Assembly member in Bajhang (A).

Key political players including CPN (Unified Socialist), CPN-UML, Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Rastriya Prajatantra Party have announced their candidates, intensifying the electoral competition.

The CPN (Unified Socialist) has taken a proactive stance by nominating Jit Bahadur Rai and Dil Bahadur Singh as their candidates for Ilam-2 and Bajhang (A) respectively. Rai, a former Chairman of Maijogmai Rural Municipality, brings local leadership experience to the fore.

Following widespread speculation, CPN-UML has officially endorsed Suhang Nembang, son of the late Subas Nembang, as its contender for the Ilam-2 seat. This move underscores the party’s commitment to its stronghold in the constituency.

In a similar vein, the RSP has put forth Milan Limbu as its representative for the Ilam-2 constituency, a decision backed by unanimous support from within the party ranks.

However, the Nepali Congress and CPN (Maoist Centre) are yet to finalize their candidates, deliberating carefully amidst the competitive milieu.

“Nepali Congress is actively considering seven potential candidates for Ilam-2. After comprehensive evaluations and consultations, we aim to conclude the candidate selection process by April 2,” stated Min Bahadur Bishwakarma, Member of Parliament and Chief of the Publicity Department of the Nepali Congress.

Likewise, the CPN (Maoist Centre) is deliberating its stance, contemplating whether to support external candidates or field its own representatives.

As the nomination deadline looms closer, a total of 20 parties have registered for the election in Ilam-2, and 19 in Bajhang (A), according to records of the Election Commission. Notably, RSP has opted out of the provincial assembly by-election in Bajhang.

In preparation for the by-elections, the Nepali Congress has convened its Central Work Performance Committee’s meeting for Friday, likely to finalize its candidates, as announced by party president Sher Bahadur Deuba.

With political fervor reaching new heights, these by-elections hold significant implications for the political landscape of Ilam and Bajhang, setting the stage for an intense electoral showdown come April 27.