After a high-level Congress meeting held in New Delhi earlier this week, Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao said the party has decided to take the initiative in building a broad-based opposition alliance in Goa, anchored by a common minimum programme.
Alemao said senior Congress leaders from the State recently held detailed discussions with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare, and party general secretary K.C. Venugopal. The meeting focused on Goa’s political landscape and preparations for upcoming elections.
He said the delegation apprised the central leadership of key issues affecting the State, including alleged corruption, administrative lapses, financial stress and declining law-and-order conditions. According to Alemao, Rahul Gandhi acknowledged these concerns and assured that the party would raise Goa-related issues in Parliament wherever feasible during the ongoing session.
As part of organisational revamp ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, Alemao said the party leadership has decided to restructure its district-level units. Four district Congress presidents are proposed to be appointed in Goa. “In addition to North Goa, South Goa and Kushavati, one more district will be created. The final announcement will be made by the party president,” he said, adding that the process of appointing District Congress Committees has already begun.
Emphasising the importance of opposition unity, Alemao said there is a growing demand among the people of Goa for a united front to prevent fragmentation of votes. He said this sentiment has been communicated to the party’s central leadership. “As the main opposition party, it is our responsibility to bring everyone together,” he said.
Expressing confidence about the 2027 elections, Alemao said the Congress is optimistic about forming the next government. He added that political parties currently aligned with the ruling side but seeking change are welcome to join the proposed alliance.
Describing the Delhi meeting as constructive, Alemao said in-depth discussions were held on political strategy. He stressed the need to rise above internal differences and focus on public aspirations. “Unity is essential. If we remain divided, votes will be split and the people’s interests will suffer,” he said.
He added that the proposed opposition alliance would function on the basis of a common minimum programme, which would also address key concerns such as putting an end to the “casino culture” in Goa.
