the goan I network
VASCO
Speculations of ex-revenue minister and State President of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Jose Philip D’Souza joining the Congress party in Vasco have been triggered in the Port Town after the traditional Sao Joao celebrations organised by D’Souza’s supporters on Sunday saw the presence of Congress Party President Girish Chodankar, Congress Mahila President Pratima Coutinho as Chief Guest and Guests of Honor, respectively.
This culmination of various party leaders, especially ahead of elections, certainly raised eyebrows and speculations ran thick and fast about D’Souza joining the Congress soon.
The speech made by Chodankar and Coutinho stating that it was time wise decisions were taken if Goa had to witness changes in the future and that they were expecting a new leader from Vasco to join their tribe further fuelled speculations in the Port Town.
All three leaders were seen speaking at length about the current affairs and issues plaguing Vasco and the general political scenario of the state.
Coutinho, while addressing the revellers, said that D’Souza was a good choice for Vasco. “We are looking forward to Acche Din and Jose Philip D’Souza. This is a big suspense and it will be open very soon. With the new tie-up, it could be rocking and we are waiting for a special guest from Vasco to join Congress soon,” said Coutinho.
Chodankar, meanwhile, state that it was time D’Souza made a choice in response to the demand from a large section of voters in Vasco. “His well-wishers have openly told him their expectations and on this important day, he has to decide on their demands. A lot of youth supporting him are looking for a change and I welcome them all. D’Souza should now take heed of the demands of his supporters and take development of Vasco in a better way,” said Chodankar.
D’Souza said, “Today, I have asked a question to all the people about their choice and I will take a decision accordingly. Whatever my supporters decide will be my decision and I will act as per their needs. It is important I listen to them and take a step which is good for all.”
While it is well-known that D’Souza had cordial relations with the Congress, there was discord during the last Assembly elections when the NCP was rejected by the Congress.
Meanwhile, Vascokars have been witnessing a lot of political twists in the past few days as some days back Krishna Daji Salkar was seen along with Goa Forward vice-president Durgadas Kamat at Congress leader Saifullah Khan’s house for Eid celebrations leading to speculation that Salkar may join Goa Forward from the Port Town.
