PANAJI: Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao has hit out at the BJP-led State government over the six-month delay in appointing a new Lokayukta, accusing the party of making hollow promises on corruption.
“The Goa BJP, which gave a 'mantra' of zero tolerance to corruption, appears to be deliberately delaying the appointment of a new Lokayukta following the end of Justice (Retd) Ambadas Joshi's tenure in December 2024,” Alemao posted on ‘X’.
He pointed out that Justice Joshi’s appointment itself came after a six-month gap since his predecessor’s term ended in 2020, and questioned the BJP’s commitment to fighting corruption.
“If the BJP is genuinely committed to eradicating corruption, why the delay? Is the party hesitant to face complaints in corruption cases? Without a Lokayukta in place, pending cases are likely to languish, and justice delayed,” Alemao added.
The office of the Lokayukta has remained non-functional since December 2024, with around 20 corruption-related cases pending. While the Directorate of Vigilance had written to the Chief Secretary in February to begin the process of shortlisting candidates, there has been no movement so far.
