The long-awaited cabinet reshuffle marks a strategic recalibration within the BJP government, reflecting a calculated move to leverage individual strengths and consolidate electoral gains. The induction of Margao MLA Digambar Kamat and Canacona MLA Ramesh Tawadkar on Thursday is not merely about political compulsions, but a nuanced political calculus aimed at strengthening the party’s foothold in the 2027 assembly elections.
The inclusion of Kamat, a seasoned politician and former chief minister, indicates an effort to bolster electoral prospects in the Margao constituency and the surrounding regions of Fatorda and Navelim. Margao has not been in the BJP's comfort zone, and to make matters worse, it is witnessing a political churn with Opposition players stacking up against the MLA. Kamat’s return is seen as a move to leverage his position by using his experience and local stature as rallying points.
For Kamat, this move offers a chance to regain his foothold in government functioning. Having been out of the cabinet since 2012, his induction provides an opportunity for him to re-establish his political mojo and influence local politics ahead of the crucial municipal and zilla panchayat elections.
On the other hand, Tawadkar’s return to the cabinet after a 13-year hiatus was obvious because he was considered the best fit for the vacuum left by Minister Govind Gaude. The Canacona MLA was the BJP’s go-to man because of his influence in tribal and rural constituencies. The BJP also understands that antagonizing tribal communities at this juncture could jeopardize its electoral prospects in tribal-dominated regions. Tawadkar’s re-entry is thus a strategic effort to placate tribal sentiments, ensuring the party does not lose ground in these sensitive areas.
The reshuffle, however, also exposes a few chinks in the system where performances of ministers become secondary to political compulsions. Aleixo Sequeira, despite his commendable performance as Environment Minister, was compelled to step down to accommodate Kamat, citing personal reasons, although it was amply clear that he bowed down to the party command’s dictates. If we may recall, Nilesh Cabral, who was another ‘performing’ minister, was dropped to make way for Sequeira.
Meanwhile, an air of disenchantment blew across the corridors of Raj Bhavan, with some leaders conspicuous by their absence. While Gaude may have reason enough to avoid the ceremony, it was Michael Lobo’s absence that raised eyebrows since he was a top contender some time back, to a point where even the chief minister hinted on his birthday on June 18 that “Aachee Din” are on the horizon for him. He was absent, and so was his wife Delilah Lobo.
All said and done, the focus will now shift to the portfolio allocation to the new ministers. Kamat and Tawadkar are not only heavyweights but are seen as leadership material by political pundits, given their experience and stewardship. Also, Kamat is familiar with the working styles of most of the ministers. The portfolios given to the two, in a way, will reflect the comfort level of the chief minister, especially when Sawant holds a bulk of the departments.
Nonetheless, the BJP has once again played it smart. It has decided to let go of the Nuvem constituency, which they can’t claim at this stage, while focusing on Margao, Fatorda, and Navelim. It reflects a pragmatic approach, balancing political calculations with sensitivities, to fortify its position in a complex political landscape. The overarching goal appears to be consolidating power and preparing for the crucial 2027 electoral face-off. It’s to be seen whether this strategy pays dividends at the husting.
