MAPUSA
Barely days after Urban Development Minister Francis D'Souza bitterly criticised the BJP party, Deputy Speaker and Calangute MLA Micheal Lobo on Monday criticised his own coalition government, bluntly telling ministers and MLAs to work for the betterment of poor and middle class instead of fighting over portfolios and posts.
Lobo said he was even willing to sacrifice his post if someone wanted it.
"It looks like certain politicians have got elected only for positions. If anyone wants my position they can have it. I will continue working for the people of Goa," said Lobo, while speaking to reporters along the sidelines of a function to inaugurate a motorcycle pilot stand in Calangute.
Lobo is the deputy speaker in the present setup and is also the chairman of North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA).
The government is contemplating to bifurcate the NGPDA ostensibly to satisfy Taleigao strong man, Anatasio (Babush) Monserrate for his support to Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar in the by-elections.
Speaking further, the Calangute MLA said that around eight months have passed since the government was sworn in, but certain politicians were making various statements demanding certain positions unconcerned about the development of Goa and Goans.
"If anyone wants my position let them take it. It is there for them to take," said Lobo, clearly hinting at the alliance partners.
"Focus on solving problems of taxi and rent-a-car operators and fishermen. I am ready to solve the issues of the public without any portfolio or post," said Lobo.
"Alliance partners in the coalition government are fighting over portfolios. All parties in the State are working towards their own benefits and ignore the poor and middle class Goans."
"It is about nine months since the coalition government was formed in the State. What good has been done by the government for Goans? I feel that some people from the government are going in the wrong direction," alleged Lobo.
"If issues concerning Goans are not resolved, there will be chaos and protests on the streets. Before any untoward incident takes place, the government should resolve their issues," warned Lobo.
"What is the use of getting elected and becoming ministers if simple public issues are unresolved," asked the Calangute MLA.
Stating that the taxi and rent-a-car operators and motorcycle pilots are hopeful that the government would solve their issues, Lobo said: "Issues like speed governors and meters are not yet solved. After follow-ups, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar had assured to solve these issues in September, but so far the issues are yet to be solved."
