NT Reporter
Margao
Goa Forward Party (GFP) chief Vijai Sardesai on Thursday said that opposition parties may consider forming a coalition to contest the forthcoming Zilla Panchayat (ZP) elections against the BJP in Goa.
He was addressing the media after the induction of Luis Quadros, president of Raia Sporting Club and former sarpanch of Raia, along with his supporters into the GFP.
“We can contemplate contesting these elections in a united front. However, this decision depends on the calibre and strength of the candidates,” he said.
He said the Curtorim seat was secured by a Congress candidate, but added, “These are the individuals who cast their votes for the party’s nominee.”
He said, “Time and tide does not wait for anyone. As a political entity, we believe that regional parties should participate in elections based on party lines. While we recognise that zilla panchayats lack substantial powers and functions, we perceive these elections as a ‘ground-creating election’, or a semi-final match for the 2027 assembly elections.”
Responding to a media query, Sardesai said his party would strategically field candidates in constituencies where the prospects of victory appear strong. “We will determine the number of candidates who will contest the elections at a later stage; nevertheless, Quadros is likely to be a candidate for the forthcoming ZP election,” he said.
Quadros said his decision to align with the GFP was influenced by Sardesai’s consistent support and responsiveness to past concerns. “Although I was approached telephonically by leaders from the Congress party and personally by AAP, I resolutely decided to join the GFP,” he said.
