Imphal, Dec 27 : Campaigning for Moirang Assembly byelection came to an end today with both the Congress and Manipur Peoples Party (MPP) exuding confidence in their candidates.

The bypoll for this constituency in Bishnupur district will be held on Saturday. The seat fell vacant following the death of Congress MLA Mairembam Manindra Singh.

The late MLA’s son Prithiviraj Singh is locked in a straight contest with Hemam Bira Singh of the MPP.

While the Congress is banking on stability, the MPP is relying on the anti-incumbency factor.

“Our main plank is stability, progress and development. The Ibobi Singh government could usher in political stability for the first time in the state,” S. Mangi Singh, spokesman for the Congress said.

In the last Assembly elections in February 2007, the party managed to win a simple majority of 31 in a 60-member House. After the death of Manindra Singh, the strength of the party was reduced to 29.

The Opposition, including the NCP, MPP, NPP and Independents, has an equal number of 29 members in the House.

The CPI has four members in the coalition — Secular Progressive Front.