Tamang stakes claim to form new govt in Sikkim

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Monday called on Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and submitted a resolution passed by newly-elected MLAs of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) electing him as their legislature party leader to stake claim to form the next government, an official said.

He was accompanied by all the newly-elected SKM MLAs during the meeting with the Governor at the Raj Bhavan.

Acharya congratulated the newly elected MLAs and wished them well.

It was not immediately known when the swearing-in ceremony of the chief minister and his council of ministers would take place, the official said.

Tamang the outgoing CM had called on the Governor on Sunday evening and had submitted his resignation to clear the decks for the formation of a new government.

Acharya had asked Tamang to continue as the chief minister for the time being.

The SKM won 31 of the 32 seats in the assembly elections, the counting for which was held on Sunday.

The opposition Sikkim Democratic Front secured one seat.

SKM expels 3 party leaders including former minister

The SKM, meanwhile, expelled three leaders, including former minister Karma Loden Bhutia from the party for indulging in anti-party activities, a party official said.

On the instruction of Tamang, party general secretary (Hqs) Pawan Gurung issued the letter expelling Bhutia, vice president (Culture Wing), Durga Prasad Pradhan (ex-advisor and vice-president Geyzing district), and Avinash Yakha, general secretary, press and media, youth wing, with immediate effect for indulging in anti-party activities, he said.

Their posts and primary membership shall stand as null and void from the party with immediate effect, Gurung said.