Imphal: Four candidates including human rights activist Irom Sharmila will contest against Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh at Thoubal Assembly constituency at Thoubal district. Thoubal constituency will have five candidates. The BJP has pitted Leitanthem Basanta, AITC has put Leishangthem Suresh. An Independent Dr Akoijam Manglemjao was also in the fray.
Even though the last date of withdrawal is not over none of the candidates were likely to withdraw. Chief Minister Ibobi was confident of winning at Thoubal and also returning to power for the fourth time. Irom Sharmila, of People’s Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) said she had problems seeking votes at the turf of the Chief Minister. She however said people were favouring her and supporting her. The BJP candidate son of a former Congress MLA was thinking the anti - incumbency factor will help as Mr Ibobi has been in power for the 15 years consecutively. (UNI)