the goan I network
MAPUSA
Sources disclosed that a die-hard BJP karyakarta, Rohan Kavlekar, is tipped to be the new chairperson and the decision was a deal that was sealed around a month back.
Sixteen councilors including the outgoing chairperson had met at the residence of Urban Development Minister, Francis D’Souza, a month back where it was declared that Rohan Kavlekar would be the next choice to take over the baton from Falari.
It is understood that Mapusa BJP Mandal’s strong backing tilted the balance in favour of Kavlekar for the top post. Kavlekar was a former BJP Mandal chief from Mapusa.
Kavlekar overcame the challenge of two other senior councilors “ Sudhir Kandolkar and Ryan Braganza “ who were in the race for the top job.
Former chairperson, Sudhir Kandolkar stated that an “understanding” was arrived at among the leaders that the remaining period of the council would be divided among the three top contenders.
“The next chairperson will be Rohan Kavlekar for a period of 14 months. After him the remaining 28 months will be equally shared first by Ryan Braganza and then me,” Kandolkar said.
He said the issue was amicably resolved for the sake of development of Mapusa.
“We need to stay together to bring about wholesome development of the town. The chief minister has also been taking some proactive steps which will help in bringing glory to Mapusa,” he said.
Ironically, despite having a two-third majority in the 20-member council, the BJP-led panel could not manage to retain stability in the council.
The BJP-led panel had bagged 16 wards out of 20 in the 2015 civic polls in Mapusa.
Sources said the urban development minister wanted Falari to remain chairperson for the full term but had to give in due to the ambitions of the senior members.
Meanwhile, outgoing MMC chairman Falari handed over his charge to vice-chairperson Marlene D’Souza on Tuesday afternoon soon after the director of administration accepted Falari’s resignation.
