Reports that Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) president Girishbab Chodankar is likely to contest the 2027 Assembly elections have become the latest talking point in political circles, both within the Congress and beyond. Sources say that a GPCC chief entering the electoral fray would not only strengthen the party's campaign but also send out a clear message that he is ready to lead from the front. After all, his mentor, Luizinhobab Faleiro, led the Congress in the 2017 Assembly elections and came within striking distance of forming the government. Any takers?
Where will Girish test his
electoral fortunes in 2027?
From which constituency will GPCC chief Girishbab Chodankar contest the 2027 Goa Assembly election, should he finally decide to throw his hat into the ring? Political circles are already abuzz with speculation over the constituency he may choose. Will Girishbab return to his home turf of Fatorda, or make another attempt from neighbouring Margao, where he unsuccessfully challenged Digambarbab Kamat in the 2002 Assembly polls? Could he instead opt for Navelim, a constituency currently represented by the BJP? Or will he look beyond Salcete altogether, perhaps setting his sights on Dabolim in Mormugao taluka or Shiroda in Ponda taluka? The question now is: where will Girishbab test his electoral fortunes in 2027?
Will Cong have to grapple with
debate over claim to CM's post?
What does Leader of the Opposition Yuribab Alemao have to say about GPCC chief Girishbab Chodankar's reported decision to contest the 2027 Assembly elections? The question assumes significance against the backdrop of the growing perception that Yuribab is positioning himself as the Congress' chief ministerial face should the party return to power in 2027. The Congress may have to grapple with an internal debate: should the party president who leads the organisation to an electoral victory have the first claim to the Chief Minister's post, or should that honour go to the incumbent Leader of the Opposition? The questions remain unanswered.
Was there a political message in
Vijai wishing Girish on birthday?
Did Goa Forward Party chief Vijaibab Sardesai carry a political message when he called on Congress president Girishbab Chodankar to wish him on his birthday over the weekend? On the face of it, Vijaibab's visit appeared to be a courtesy call, reciprocating the birthday wishes Girishbab had extended to him a month earlier. Yet, while the exchange of greetings and pleasantries attracted media attention, political observers were more interested in whether the two leaders used the opportunity to set the stage for formal talks between their parties. Only time will tell.
Digambar avoids comparison of his
govt's attitude towards protesters
PWD Minister Digambar Kamat found himself in a tricky situation when the media reminded him that, during his tenure as Chief Minister, the political leadership and the administration were never perceived as being hostile towards protesters. The question came in the wake of criticism over BJP state president Damubab Naik's abusive remarks against Rahul Gandhi and the police lathi charge in Delhi. A seasoned politician, Digambarbab deftly avoided drawing comparisons, maintaining that his government had never faced the kind of agitations unfolding today.
