Shillong, May 1: The by-election results of Meghalaya's Williamnagar constituency will be declared today. Polling was held in the seat on April 26. The bypoll was necessitated due to the death of NCP candidate Jonathone Sangma in a militant attack on February 18, days before the state-wide assembly elections were held on February 27.

Of the 32,021 voters enrolled in the state, a total of 78.82 per cent of the electorate voted in the polls conducted on Thursday. The State Election Commission had earmarked 58 polling booths. No incidents of violence were reported from any part of the constituency.

"The counting of votes will be held on May 1," the SEC said in its press release issued on Friday.

The NCP had nominated their deceased leader Jonathan Sangma's widow Krenilla Marak as their candidate in the by-election. The Congress had re-nominated incumbent legislator Deborah Marak, whereas, the ruling National People Party (NPP) had given the ticket to Marcuise Marak.

The bypoll witnessed an intense round of electioneering, with poll rallies being addressed by State Home Minister James Sangma, Siju Rongara MLA Rakkam A Sangma and Mawshynrut MLA G Myrthong, along with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.

Meanwhile, the Congress' campaign was led by former CM Mukul Sangma, who nine public meetings ahead of the bypolls. A victory from Williamnagar will take the Congress' strength in the 60-member Meghalaya assembly to 22.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 30, 2018 07:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).