Golay vacates Soreng-Chakung, stays as Rhenock MLA

GANGTOK,: Chief Minister PS Golay on Friday resigned as the MLA of Soreng-Chakung, vacating the West Sikkim constituency while remaining as the legislator of Rhenock constituency.

Golay, also the SKM president, had been elected from Soreng-Chakung and Rhenock constituencies in the recently conducted Assembly elections. As per rules, one of the two constituencies must be relinquished within 14 days of the election results declaration.

June 15 was the last day for taking this decision, and accordingly Golay chose to vacate Soreng-Chakung and retained the Rhenock seat.

Consequently, the Soreng-Chakung Assembly constituency stands vacant with effect from June 14 and heads for by-polls in coming months along with another vacated constituency of Namchi-Singhithang.

In his message, the Chief Minister apologized to the people of Soreng-Chakung constituency following his decision to step aside, allowing an honest and loyal party functionary to serve them as their legislator.

“Nonetheless, I promise to remain committed to serving as your MLA, ensuring that your constituency benefits from the service and care of two dedicated MLAs, including myself. Having been born and raised in my parental home in the Soreng-Chakung constituency, and my beloved mother still residing here, I am confident that the residents of this constituency will continue to receive my unwavering support and assistance, as they always have,” said Golay in his message.

Golay had secured a landslide electoral victory from Soreng-Chakung where he received 10480 votes and defeated his nearest rival by 7396 votes. His vote share was 72.18%, the highest in the State.

In his message, the Chief Minister thanked the people of Soreng-Chakung for their unity and dedication.

“Your contributions have been invaluable, and I pledge to remain forever grateful to all of you. I feel honoured to be your MLA and always remain so in my heart and soul. I humbly request all of you to continue to move forward, united in our vision of a golden and prosperous Sikkim. Let us determine to work hand in hand for the benefit of Sikkim and its people. Together, we can achieve the pinnacle of success,” said Golay.

On Thursday, Krishna Kumari Rai, the spouse of Chief Minister PS Golay, had tendered her resignation as the MLA from Namchi-Singhithang constituency.

Both Namchi-Singhithang and Soreng-Chakung now heads for by-polls in the coming months.