Ambi faction embarassed; Lokesh elected Mandya CMC president

Congress leaders, especially from the Ambarish faction, who were confident that their candidate will become the City Municipal Council (CMC) President, were left red faced, as Lokesh had to be elected unanimously, on Friday.

Hosahalli Boregowda was announced as the official candidate by the Congress party. But, due to unexpected developments, Lokesh, who was one of the aspirants, was elected as the new president.

According to party men, both Boregowda and Lokesh were strong contenders to the post. A meeting was held at the residence of District in-charge Minister Ambarish to convince one of the councillors to stay away from the contest.

Later, on Friday morning, it was decided to select the candidate through lottery, which proved lucky for Boregowda. So, the leaders directed Boregowda to file nomination for the post.

But, Lokesh, who was adamant, also filed the nomination papers. Besides, Anil Kumar, supported by former president Siddaraju too filed his papers.

As Lokesh did not agree to withdraw his nomination, the Congress party tried to issue a whip, but could not reach all the members.

Minister Ambarish, who learnt that a majority of the councillors supported Lokesh, contacted Boregowda over phone and asked him to withdraw. So, Boregowda withdrew from the race. Sumarani has been elected as the vice-president, unanimously.

Local leaders of the Congress, who failed to manage the elections, are said to be the reason behind the unexpected developments, causing embarrassment to Minister Ambarish.
However, party treasurer Amaravathi Chandrashekar said, Lokesh has been elected for the first term and Hosahalli Boregowda will be the next CMC president, after four and a half months.