A fortnight after Leader of the Opposition Yuribab Alemao proposed the Grande Opposition Alliance (GOA) to effectively checkmate the ruling BJP, questions are now being raised over whether it has already become a case of “Go GOA Gone”, with workers of the alliance partners seemingly at cross purposes. Except for displaying a symbolic spirit of unity during Yuribab’s birthday celebrations, the Opposition parties appear to have quietly drifted away from the GOA idea. The Congress and the RGP have already unveiled their lists of candidates, while the Goa Forward Party has begun campaigning for its own nominees. Wait and watch whether last ditch attempts to save GOA will fructify during the weekend.
Leadership split surfaces in Cong over alliance talks with allies
The Congress, meanwhile, witnessed a realignment of forces both within the party and with its potential allies over the issue of stitching together a pre-poll alliance with the Goa Forward Party and the Revolutionary Goans Party. Perhaps for the first time in two years, GPCC chief Amitbab Patkar and Congress MLAs ” Opposition Leader Yuribab Alemao and Altonbab D’Costa ” were not on the same page on the tricky question of the proposed alliance. Political observers are now trying to decipher whether the Yuri-Altone duo has moved closer to former Goa Congress President Girishbab Chodankar in the unfolding developments. Wait and watch.
Leader accused of 2024 dissent now back in Cong power play
Now, guess the name of the senior Congress leader who was accused of working against the party during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections but has since bounced back into the party’s inner circle. Congress insiders say this leader is once again at the centre of attention, playing an active role in shaping opinions and influencing the candidate-selection process. Many Congress workers are left wondering how someone accused of anti-party activities just a year ago now finds himself back in the decision-making mix. No prizes for the right answer.
District chief’s lobbying pays off as Cong picks Julio for Velim seat
South Goa District Congress President Saviobab D’Silva seemed to have had his way as the party nominated sitting Zilla Panchayat member Juliobab Fernandes for the Velim seat ” though not without giving party workers some anxious moments. Sources said Saviobab strongly pushed for his confidant Juliobab’s candidature, but the party’s leadership initially had other plans. In the meantime, Congress workers launched Julio’s campaign by seeking blessings at the miraculous Cross at Baradi, leaving party leaders with little option but to endorse his candidature. Any questions?
Pele’s birthday turns into show of political bonhomie at Old Goa feast
Benaulim fisherman, Francis “Pele” brought together politicos of all hue as he celebrated his birthday, which coincided with the feast of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa. After the Solemn Feast High Mass, a group of political leaders huddled near the church and were reminded that it was Pele’s birthday as well. From Chief Minister Pramodbab Sawant to Tourism Minister Rohanbab Khaunte, along with fellow MLAs including Fatorda MLA Vijaibab Sardesai, Reginaldbab, and others ” all extended their wishes. Seeing leaders from across the spectrum in attendance, the Chief Minister is believed to have remarked that Pele is close to both him and Vijaibab Sardesai. Any takers?
