MARGAO
Goans for Goa (GFG) on Friday said it will oppose the registration of the proposed “Goa Congress Party”, alleging that it is a deliberate attempt to split the secular vote.
GFG convenor Kennedy Afonso expressed shock over reports that some individuals are trying to launch a new political party under the name “Goa Congress Party” at a time when people in Goa are working to bring secular and like-minded political parties together under a Grand Alliance to defeat communal forces in the upcoming elections.
“The timing of this move raises serious questions about its real purpose. Instead of strengthening the fight against communal politics, the proposed party appears to be aimed at dividing and weakening the secular vote, particularly in South Goa, which could benefit political forces that thrive on such divisions,” he said.
Afonso said GFG has decided to file a formal objection with the Election Commission of India against the registration of the proposed party under the name “Goa Congress Party”.
“The proposed name is misleading and has the potential to confuse voters. It closely resembles the Indian National Congress and is likely to mislead the electorate, especially in rural areas and among elderly voters,” he said.
He further pointed out that Goa had already seen a political party called the Goa Congress Party, which was formed under the leadership of Dr Wilfred D’Souza before merging with the Indian National Congress in 1989.
“Trying to revive the same name today can only be seen as an attempt to exploit that legacy and create confusion among voters,” Afonso added.
