MAPUSA
Rejecting the Opposition’s challenge in the upcoming Zilla Panchayat (ZP) elections, BJP State President Damu Naik on Thursday exuded confidence that the party would sweep the polls and strengthen what he termed a “triple-engine government” in Goa.
Addressing the media in Mapusa as the BJP kick-started its North Goa campaign, Naik said the Opposition was “only making noise”, while the BJP’s organisational strength and development record would secure victory across constituencies.
Naik informed that the BJP has already announced 40 candidates for the ZP elections, while three seats have been allotted to alliance partner MGP. In the remaining seven seats, he said, the party would support Independent candidates. “Most of our candidates are fresh faces, with no liabilities. They are young, committed and eager to work for the people. We are 100 percent confident of winning all seats,” Naik asserted.
The party show of strength included the presence of Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo and Saligao MLA Kedar Naik.
Four party candidates filed their nominations earlier in the day, which preceded with a gathering at the Shree Dev Bodgeshwar Temple to seek blessings before formally launching the campaign.
Khaunte said people had “deep faith in the BJP”, crediting the government’s development work for the support the party expects. “We will fulfil every expectation of the people. Ultimately, they will decide, and we are confident they are with us,” he said.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo said the BJP’s sustained personal connect with voters would translate into a “thumping victory”. He claimed supporters from other parties were also backing BJP candidates.
Saligao MLA Kedar Naik added that all MLAs were united in ensuring the party’s success at the hustings.
A large number of sarpanchas, panchayat members, former ZP members and karyakartas were present at the event, marking a high-energy start to the BJP’s ZP election campaign in North Goa.
