MAPUSA
In a rare move, the BJP-led Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) on Wednesday elected Independent councillor Prakash Bhivshet as Vice Chairperson “ breaking from its long-standing policy of reserving key posts exclusively for party members.
The unopposed election of Bhivshet, known for his vocal criticism of his own group and the ruling council, has sent ripples through political circles in Mapusa.
The move is being viewed as a rare concession by the saffron party, which had previously insisted on loyalty through formal membership in exchange for power.
Ever since the council was constituted following the 2021 municipal elections, the BJP had tightly controlled appointments, coercing opposition members to defect in exchange for posts and developmental favours in their wards.
In 2023, councillor Nutan Bicholkar was reportedly promised the chairperson’s post “ on the condition that she join the BJP. Bhivshet, however, has managed to secure the vice chairperson’s post without aligning himself with the party.
Speaking to The Goan, Bhivshet maintained a diplomatic tone. “The party must have seen my capability to work with the chairperson and deliver good governance. I’ve been entrusted with the responsibility, and I will do my best to meet those expectations,” he said.
The senior councillor, who has consistently raised tough questions in council meetings, promised to address Mapusa’s long-standing garbage crisis and improve civic services. “This isn’t just about the public “ it’s also about us councillors who are frustrated by the lack of efficient systems. People shouldn’t have to make repeated trips to the municipal council. We need to fix that,” he added.
With municipal elections on the horizon, the decision to elect an Independent councillor to a key post may be a strategic gamble: placating independent voices while keeping the BJP’s grip on power intact “ for now.
