As vote counting day approaches, Golay calls for peace and harmony in Sikkim

SUJAL PRADHAN, EOI, GANGTOK, MAY 30, 2024 : In a Facebook post on Thursday, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang highlighted the recent success of the assembly and 18th Lok Sabha elections in the state, calling them the most peaceful in the history of Sikkim. The Chief Minister also shared details of an important meeting he chaired with Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) party candidates at his official residence.

Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted the imperative of maintaining harmony and asked all SKM members to maintain peace. "It is our utmost duty to remain in a harmonious state, guide all members of our organization properly, and maintain peace, goodwill, friendship, and brotherhood," he stated.

Reflecting on the recently concluded elections, Tamang praised the unparalleled peace and organization. "This 18th Lok Sabha and 11th Sikkim Legislative Assembly election have been the most peaceful in Sikkim's history," he stated. He extended thanks to various officials and departments for their contributions to the electoral process. Referring to the high voter turnout, the Chief Minister said a total of 462,456 voters participated; a turnout of 83.5percent which was two percent higher than in 2019. “This remarkable turnout sets a new record for the state, surpassing figures from other states across the country. The people of Sikkim are the true recipients of heartfelt thanks and congratulations," he said.

The Chief Minister commended the participation of 146 Assembly candidates and 14 Lok Sabha candidates and appreciated the role of every individual in ensuring a peaceful election. He reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.

"Our mission will continue in the coming days to ensure complete peace and security in the state for the benefit of the Sikkimese people," he assured. The Chief Minister called for unity among the diverse communities of Sikkim. "Though we belong to different castes and communities, we are all children of the same mother, Sikkim. Mutual respect, love, and harmony among us are our foremost duties," he said. The meeting commenced with a two- minute silence to pay tribute to the late Sonam Gyatso Bhutia, a former legislator and vice-president of the SKM central executive committee, who had passed away recently.