The outgoing BJP State President, Sadanand Tanavade reflects on his five-year tenure, navigating challenges like the 2022 Assembly elections, integrating new MLAs and strengthening party roots. In this candid interview, he shares insights on leadership, party dynamics and his commitment to creating space for future leaders
MAPUSA
The Goan (TG): You have successfully led the BJP for five years, securing numerous election victories. What was the most challenging moment during your tenure as party president?
Sadanand Tanavade (ST): Managing the 2022 State Assembly elections was undoubtedly the most challenging task. Striking a balance between retaining loyal party workers and introducing new faces was difficult.
Some senior leaders felt hurt when we had to deny them tickets in favour of fresh candidates. However, our priority was to win and form the government, and as party president, I had to take full responsibility for these decisions. This election was crucial as it followed the passing of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, and all eyes were on us to prove our mettle. Thankfully, our hard work paid off, and we emerged victorious.
TG: How did you manage to integrate new MLAs from other parties while ensuring harmony with the original BJP karyakartas?
ST: Welcoming MLAs from other parties is always challenging, as it requires ensuring that they blend with our original karyakartas. In BJP, we work continuously, unlike some other parties that become active only during elections.
Most new entrants adjusted to our work culture, but it wasn’t easy everywhere. In some constituencies, challenges arose, and while we succeeded in many cases, we couldn’t achieve 100% harmony. Some leaders, especially those without ambitions to contest elections, adjusted well, but others faced difficulties.
TG: Bringing in MLAs from other parties sometimes upsets loyal BJP workers. How did you address this?
ST: It’s natural for original workers to feel disappointed when new faces join from other parties. We tried our best to communicate with them and address their concerns, but complete satisfaction is difficult to achieve. In some constituencies, this led to issues, and certain leaders felt sidelined. While we worked hard to minimise these challenges, it wasn’t possible to convince everyone.
TG: You and the Chief Minister have always appeared to work in harmony. Were there any moments when you disagreed with him?
ST: A strong partnership between the party president and the Chief Minister is essential for smooth governance. We’ve always worked with mutual understanding. Whenever I felt a decision might harm the party, I conveyed my concerns, and the CM was receptive, sometimes stepping back to avoid potential issues. This synergy ensured there was no room for misunderstandings between us.
TG: BJP hasn’t been able to secure wins in certain constituencies like Benaulim, Velim and Nuvem. How is the party addressing this?
ST: The Congress has traditionally instilled fear among minorities, claiming the BJP would harm them. This fear psychosis has been their strategy to retain support. However, we are actively working to dispel these misconceptions and build trust among minorities. Once they are convinced, Congress will lose its influence in these areas. This shift will happen with time and sustained effort.
