Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Congress has downplayed the role of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the upcoming Ponda by-election, stating that the contest is essentially a direct battle between Congress and BJP.
AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare said AAP lacks significant political presence in Ponda, and voters are unlikely to divert their support to it, suggesting the party is participating mainly to retain its national party status.
Thakare highlighted that Ponda remains a Congress stronghold with voters loyal to the party despite occasional shifts by MLAs.
Criticizing BJP, he accused it of promoting a “legacy narrative” and pointed out the party previously fielded multiple candidates instead of directly supporting Ritesh Naik.
Looking ahead to the 2027 Assembly elections, Thakare emphasized the importance of opposition unity to challenge BJP, noting that while ideological differences exist with regional parties, Congress is willing to lead dialogue for a broader anti-BJP front.
He also clarified that the eight defectors who left Congress will not be reinstated, underlining the party’s commitment to discipline and public trust.
The Ponda by-election is scheduled for April 9, 2026, following the demise of the sitting MLA, with Congress and BJP candidates set to face off while AAP campaigns for visibility rather than influence.
