For a moment, Goemkars were left wondering about the curious hot-and-cold relationship between the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party. The reason isn’t too hard to find. For the Speaker’s election, the two AAP MLAs Cruz Silva and Venzy Viegas accompanied Congress candidate Altone D’Costa for filing of nomination papers. Leaders from both parties, however, were seen slogging it out on the ground—ironically accusing each other of being the B Team of the ruling BJP. Interesting, isn’t it? But hold on—what Goemkars witnessed this week may have just been a trailer. Stay tuned for the full picture of the Congress–AAP dynamic, expected to unfold around October–November, as the Zilla Panchayat polls draw near.
Three years on, of 8 turncoat MLAs, only 2 made ministers
This Sunday marks three years since eight Congress MLAs quit the party on September 14, 2022 to embrace the saffron brigade. Of these eight turncoats, only heavyweights Aleixobab Sequeira and now Digambarbab Kamat have been rewarded with coveted ministerial berths. Meanwhile, the influential Lobo couple—who played a significant role in the Congress surge in Bardez during the 2022 Assembly elections—are still awaiting their promised rewards. So too is Mormugao MLA Sankalpbab Amonkar. With the State scheduled to go to polls in early 2027, one wonders: Will good news finally come their way?
AAP reshapes strategy, expands campaign beyond home turf
As Arvindbab Kejriwal’s party intensifies its presence ahead of the upcoming polls, the AAP leadership appears changing its strategy. Sources say that the party has now tasked its two MLAs—Venzybab Viegas and Cruzbab Silva—with extending their influence beyond their home constituencies. The duo has reportedly been told to actively participate in AAP’s State-wide campaign, energising the party’s base and expanding its footprint across Goa. Any questions?
AAP flexes its muscle in Cong stronghold Salcete
It was a week when the Aam Aadmi Party made a bold presence in Saxttidom—long regarded as a Congress stronghold. AAP volunteers turned out in large numbers for back-to-back agitations, including the high-profile #BJPCheBurak campaign and the protest over the tragic death linked to the BITS Pilani agitation. The events, held in Margao—the heart of Salcete—sent a clear message. With a strong show of manpower and party flags dotting the landscape, AAP aimed to demonstrate that it’s here for the people. The big question: Is the Congress paying attention to AAP’s growing presence right in its backyard?
South Goa MP hints at power shift to Cuncolim in 2027
Will power shift to Cuncolim in the 2027 Assembly election? Well, South Goa MP Captain Viriatbab Fernandes, who was in Cuncolim during the weekend to inaugurate a school bus under the MPLAD scheme, made a passing comment about power shifting to Cuncolim in 2027 – the home turf of Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao. Those present were left to wonder whether the Captain was expressing confidence in the Congress returning to power in 2027 or was it a morale-booster message meant to energise party cadres ahead of the crucial electoral battle? Any questions?
