PANAJI: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s visit to Delhi, accompanied by Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, has reignited speculation about a possible cabinet reshuffle; however, the same is expected post-upcoming monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly.
The monsoon session is set to commence from July 21 and will go on till August 8.
Speaking to reporters at the Goa airport after meeting top BJP leaders in Delhi, Sawant did not rule out changes in his cabinet while stating, "will let you know later".
Sawant, along with Lobo, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Monday evening.
“Michael Lobo is a very close friend and a BJP party leader. We had discussions on various political issues with the Union Home Minister," the CM said.
Lobo, however, ruled out any immediate reshuffle before the monsoon session. “My induction or any cabinet changes will be decided by the BJP high command, the Chief Minister, and the State BJP President,” he said.
"Everything will happen after the monsoon session," he added.
Describing the meeting as long overdue, Lobo said it was focused on the political roadmap for Goa. “Amit Shah had asked me to meet him nearly six months ago. We finally met and spoke for about 15 minutes. He is keeping a sharp eye on Goa and is regularly updated on everything happening here,” he said.
On the question of responsibilities or a return to the cabinet, Lobo said no such assurance was given. “It is for the party to decide. At the right time, the national leadership, the CM, and the state president will take the call,” he said.
He also stated that while one cabinet berth is currently vacant, any decision on filling it lies with the top leadership. “I don't think anything will happen before the Assembly session. If at all, it may be later,” he said.
Lobo reiterated that he joined the BJP unconditionally and was proud to be part of a party that monitors developments across India so closely. “It’s reassuring to know that leaders like Amit Shah are watching even the smallest state like Goa with such attention,” he said.
