MARGAO
AAP Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas on Thursday said Goa First alliance, formed by the AAP and Goa Forward Party, is open to all like-minded parties, including the Congress, to unite against the BJP. He said the alliance has begun preparing a draft election manifesto focusing on Gen Z, senior citizens and protecting Goa from destruction.
Viegas said AAP and GFP took the initiative after Congress failed to lead the Opposition alliance. “Congress did not move forward to form the alliance like a captain. We wanted the Congress to take the lead, but that did not happen, maybe because of administrative procedures and paperwork,” he said.
“Since this was not happening, both AAP and GFP came together to take the first steps. Now it is open for like-minded parties such as the NCP, RGP and others, including the Congress, to come together to defeat the BJP,” he added.
On AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal’s statement that Goa First was a non-BJP, non-Congress alliance, Viegas said the platform was now open to the Congress and others following feedback received by GFP leader and alliance partner Vijai Sardesai that all like-minded parties should unite against the BJP. “Our decision on Goa First still stands, but if our alliance partner feels the feedback is that all like-minded parties should go to the polls unitedly, we are ready to accept all parties,” he said.
Viegas also invited new and young faces to join, saying 37 constituencies were available for newcomers. “As of today, Fatorda, Velim and Benaulim are secured. Newcomers can come and work in the remaining constituencies,” he added.
