The Citizen Action Party (CAP) declared its boycott of the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections in Sikkim if conducted on a party basis. CAP emphasized the importance of non-party grassroots democratic processes, aiming to empower communities rather than political parties.
CAP spokesperson Albert Gurung highlighted the party’s consistent advocacy for independent participation in local self-governance. He stressed that municipal and Nagar Panchayat elections should remain non-partisan to maintain their democratic essence. Gurung expressed concerns that conducting local body elections on a party basis would compromise their fundamental purpose.
Echoing similar sentiments, CAP spokesperson Prakash Parajuly criticized party-based local polls for undermining the decentralization spirit envisioned under the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts. Parajuly argued that party-based elections in a small state like Sikkim could overshadow local issues with political affiliations, potentially leading to a neglect of public welfare.
CAP announced its decision not to field candidates under its symbol in the ULB polls, opting instead to support independent candidates based on merit, integrity, and public service credentials. The party emphasized the need for capable and educated youth to address grassroots issues and ensure accountability in governance.
