Irom Sharmila forms new political party, to contest against CM Ibobi Singh

GUWAHATI: Human rights activist Irom Sharmila launched a new political party, 'People Resurgence and Justice Alliance' in Imphal on Tuesday.

Sharmila announced that she will contest against Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh’s Thoubal constituency in the 2017 assembly elections.

The new party will field 20 candidates, names of four candidates is finalized.

Sharmila who was on fast for 16 year demanding repeal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) ended her fast recently. She announced that she will also contest from Khurai her home constituency.

Sharmila said that she wants to become Chief Minister to repeal AFSPA. “Ibobi has kept people satisfied so I may be defeated in Thoubal. But I want to know whether people in other districts in general and the hills in particular are well looked after."

In a symbolic gesture she visited Johnstone Higher Secondary School in Imphal. The first session of the elected Assembly of Manipur was held on October 18, 1948 was held in this school.