the goan I network
MARGAO
The Congress on Friday exuded confidence of regaining the Colva Zilla Panchayat, with candidate Suzie Fernandes saying that her experience in panchayat affairs will help her to serve the people of the constituency.
In an apparent show of strength, the ruling Colva panchayat comprising Sarpanch Anthony Fernandes and panch members Tandrila Pacheco (Deputy Sarpanch), Domingos Rodrigues, Dylan Gracias, Johnson, besides Majorda panch member Creson Antao and Linet M Vaz attended Suzie’s media briefing along with Congress Benaulim in-charge Dixon Vaz and PCC secretary Everson Vales.
Suzie said she has decided to throw her hat in the ring after being approached by the people and the Congress party. “I was a former Colva Sarpanch. Unlike other candidates in the fray, I have rich experience in panchayat administration, which can be used to solve the issues of the people,” she said.
While asserting that former MLA Mickky Pacheco has extended support to her candidature, Suzie, however, said her helpful nature and the support of the people will keep her in good stead in the election.
Congress Benaulim in-charge Dixon Vaz said Suzie has received an overwhelming response from the people of Colva constituency. He said though Congress MLA had in the past betrayed the people, Congress workers and sympathizers will rally behind the party ZP candidate.
Colva Sarpanch Anthony said the Congress candidate is a people’s candidate as she has the backing of the people and has no political godfather. “Suzie is not new in politics and has rich experience to represent the people,” he said.
To a question, he said though it was perceived that the Colva panchayat is aligned to Churchill, the Benaulim MLA had never supported the ruling panchayat. “Churchill had never supported us. Only his family members had all supported the panchayat,” he added.
Panch member Domingo Rodrigues demanded to know why Churchill is not supporting Suzie when she is hailing from his Benaulim constituency.
