KATHMANDU: As the by-election in Ilam Constituency-2 looms closer, a dynamic political landscape unfolds, with parties strategically positioning themselves to clinch victory, setting the stage for the larger narrative of ‘Mission-84’ and heralding a new era of electoral dynamics in Nepal.
Additionally, as the April 27 by-election gains momentum, top leaders of major political parties have signaled their intent to contest independently in the 2084 general elections.
With 115,342 eligible voters, including 58,784 males, 56,556 females, and 2 ‘others’, the Election Commission has designated 149 polling stations and 79 voting centers for the by-election.
As the countdown begins, all eyes are on Ilam-2, where the fate of political aspirations and ‘Mission-84’ hangs in the balance.
A “battleground” for four candidates, including Suhang Nemwang (joint candidate of CPN-UML and Maoist Center), Dambar Khadka of Nepali Congress, Milan Limbu of Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and independent candidate Dakendra Thegim, Ilam-2 anticipates a fierce competition.
Traditionally a stronghold of CPN-UML (won by late Subash Chandra Nemwang), Ilam-2 retains strategic importance for the party.
On the other hand, Nepali Congress appears determined to challenge UML’s dominance in the constituency this time.
It should be recalled that UML’s Subash Nemwang secured victory with 30,020 votes, narrowly defeating Nepali Congress’s Dambar Khadka by a mere 114 votes.
It should be noted that having previously contested elections by forging an alliance with Maoist Center in the previous election, NC now asserts its ability to secure victory independently in the Ilam-2 by-election.
The party has mobilized all resources as it endeavors to showcase its strength solo.
What has to be noted is that the April 27 by-election in Ilam-2 emerges not just as a regional contest but a prelude to the larger narrative of ‘Mission-84’, wherein parties vie to assert their individual strength and pave the path for future electoral endeavors.
In the pursuit of solidifying its legacy and laying the groundwork for ‘Mission-84’, UML has positioned Suhang, the son of its leader Subash Nemwang, garnering support from the Maoist Center.
On the other hand, RSP has aimed to clinch victory in Ilam-2 by fielding Milan Limbu, a former journalist.
Drawing parallels with its victory in Tanahu, RSP seeks to spring a similar surprise in Ilam-2.
Meanwhile, identity-based group, which has been protesting the name of Koshi Province, too, have fielded their candidate, Thegim, representing 41 constituencies with long as the election symbol.
As anticipation mounts, the stage is set for the Ilam-2 by-election, captivating the attention of all. The contest embodies a clash between established and emerging political forces.
Reflecting on past elections, the previous election in Ilam-2 witnessed a tight race between the two main contenders — UML and NC.
It should be recalled that UML’s Subash Nemwang secured victory with 30,020 votes, narrowly defeating Nepali Congress’s Dambar Khadka by a mere 114 votes.
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