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 5,857 votes behind .

As per the latest update, Suhang has amassed an impressive 18,196 votes, firmly establishing his frontrunner position.

In contrast, his closest competitor, Dambar Khadka, trails behind with 12,339 votes, resulting in a substantial margin of 5,857 votes between the two candidates.

Dakendra Thegim follows with 9,336 votes, while Milan Limbu of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lags behind with only 3,067 votes secured thus far.

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