Now, Lobo says let people decide his political future

MAPUSA
In another twist to the debate on his political future, Ports Minister, Michael Lobo, on Monday, said that he joined BJP only because of former CM late Manohar Parrikar and put the ball on his future political prospects in people’s court.

Lobo also said that Parrikar was a “tall leader across parties” and emphasised the need to take his legacy forward.

“In 2017, I had an offer to join another party. But I refused to do so because of Manohar Parrikar. He said just one word…and promised to help me grow in the party. Therefore, I remained with him,” Lobo said. 

“Now, Parrikar is no longer with us but we have to see that his legacy continues. How to do it and what to do…Our people will decide. My main supporters and well-wishers will decide on which party banner I have to contest,” he added.

One of the most vocal ministers in the Pramod Sawant-led government, Lobo has been in the spotlight for expressing views on his political ambition.

He recently announced his candidature from Calangute and that of his wife, Delilah from Siolim and Congressman Sudhir Kandolkar from Mapusa as winnable candidates in Bardez.

He has also been on record that if BJP did not want him then he would have to look out for other options.

Holding Manohar Parrikar in high esteem, Lobo said that he was inspired by the late CM’s simplicity and his work ethic.

“I was a Congressman earlier but joined BJP in 2005 under the leadership of Manohar Parrikar. When he became the chief minister in 2000, he did good work for Goa. The Dayanand Social Security (DSS) scheme started by him with just Rs 500 is very good. It is of immense help to senior citizens,” he said.

Lobo laboured to come clean whether joining Congress was an option that was still open to him.

“I am in BJP and a minister in the government. How can I say I am joining another party? My people will decide what I have to do,” he said.

The Calangute MLA has been facing stiff resistance from the local Congress leaders who are dead against his entry into the party.