Former SDF Leaders, Including Two Ex-Ministers, Join Sikkim’s Ruling SKM

Sikkim SDF leaders including two ex-ministers join ruling SKM

PTI, February 01, 2026, Gangtok: Former Sikkim ministers Sonam Gyatso Lepcha and Tshering Wangdi Lepcha, along with former MLAs Ugen Nedup Bhutia and Bek Bahadur Rai of the SDF, on Sunday joined the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM).

Former Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) spokesperson Rikzing Norbu Dorjee Bhutia was also among those who joined the SKM.

The move came ahead of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha’s 14th Foundation Day on February 4. The leaders are expected to be officially inducted into the party during the celebrations.

The new leaders were welcomed into the SKM by party president and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang at his official residence.

In a social media post, the Chief Minister said the leaders’ collective experience in public life and legislative responsibilities will greatly enrich the government’s efforts and strengthen the party.

“I look forward to working closely with them for the state’s growth and public well-being,” he said.

Tamang hailed their decision to join the SKM as a demonstration of their strong belief in the party’s ideology, leadership, and commitment to inclusive governance.

The SDF did not win any seat in the 32-member Sikkim Assembly in the 2024 polls.

SKM leaders claimed that thousands of SDF supporters are expected to join the ruling party during its Foundation Day celebrations.