Sikkim’s Citizen Action Party held a meeting on October 30 after both of its candidates failed to qualify for the upcoming by-polls.
The meeting chaired by CAP’s Ganesh Rai and senior party members, announced that October 28 will be observed as “Black Day” each year until the restoration of democracy in Sikkim. “Citizen Action Party-Sikkim has announced that October 28 will be observed as a ‘Black Day’ until democracy is restored in Sikkim. The party calls upon the people of Sikkim to unite and recognize this day as a symbol of resistance and the fight for democratic rights.” Reads the Press release
This decision follows the invalidation of CAP candidates Mahesh Rai and Pabin Hang Subba’s nominations for the by-polls, which the party attributes to the “authoritarian regime” of the ruling SKM party. “The candidacies of Mr. Mahesh Rai from the 11-Namchi-Singhithang constituency and Mr. Pabin Hang Subba from the 7-Soreng-Chakung constituency were invalidated due to the authoritarian policies of the ruling SKM party,” added the statement
Following to the cancellation of the candidature, Citizen Action Party expressed its gratitude to its candidates, “The party highly values their steadfast commitment and patience in these trying times. We also extend our appreciation to the supporters and proposers of these candidates for their cooperation and support,” release added
Furthermore, Press release informed that the party met with the General Observer for the bye-election from the Election Commission of India, “The party met with the General Observer (bye election) Election Commission of India to expose the autocratic nature of the SKM and its actions against democratic principles. The party has resolved to continue raising its voice for truth and justice, with a firm commitment to defending democracy and the people’s rights in Sikkim in the days ahead.”
