KATHMANDU: Suhang Nembang, representing the CPN-UML, continues to command a significant lead in the ongoing vote count for the Ilam-2 by-election leaving Nepali Congress candidate 5,671 votes behind .

As per the latest update, Suhang has amassed an impressive 16,944 votes, firmly establishing his frontrunner position.

In contrast, his closest competitor, Dambar Khadka, trails behind with 11,273 votes, resulting in a substantial margin of 5,671 votes between the two candidates.

Dakendra Thegim follows with 9,044 votes, while Milan Limbu of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lags behind with only 2,803 votes secured thus far.

With Suhang maintaining a decisive lead, the outcome of the by-election appears to be increasingly clear.