PANAJI
As the Goa Congress navigates internal unrest following its recent leadership change, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has indicated that it remains focused on the larger goal of uniting Opposition forces to challenge the BJP in the 2027 Assembly elections.
AAP Goa chief Valmiki Naik said the party is open to a pre-poll alliance with the Congress and other Opposition parties, but stressed that the Congress, as the state's principal Opposition party, should take the initiative in bringing like-minded parties together.
"We are open to an alliance with the Congress irrespective of any differences. Congress should take the lead in forging a united Opposition front," Naik said, adding that the party's internal leadership decisions would not affect AAP's position on a possible alliance.
Naik said that the primary objective should be to defeat the BJP and significantly reduce its strength in the next Assembly election. He said Opposition parties must be prepared to explore all options, including an alliance, to achieve that goal.
Calling for early discussions, Naik said alliance talks should begin well before the elections rather than being left until the final stages of campaigning.
He further stated that the purpose of any alliance should not be limited to forming a government but should focus on bringing about a change in governance after 15 years of BJP rule in the state.
Naik also proposed that the Opposition jointly prepare a Common Minimum Programme for 2027 after consulting citizens across Goa. Such an exercise, he said, would help ensure that the alliance's agenda reflects the aspirations and priorities of the people.
He also said that Opposition parties would need to undertake confidence-building measures to assure voters that any alliance government would remain united and complete its full five-year term.
