PANAJI
The Goa Forward Party (GFP) has hinted at a more assertive and possibly independent electoral strategy, announcing plans to contest up to 25 seats in the forthcoming 2027 assembly elections even as it continues its alliance with the Indian National Congress for the Ponda by-poll.
At its State Executive meeting on Monday, the party resolved to significantly expand its organisational footprint across Goa, a move seen as preparation for a broader and more self-reliant electoral presence.
Senior leader and General Secretary Mohandas Lolienkar said the party was actively working towards strengthening its base across constituencies and could field candidates in as many as 25 seats.
While reiterating that defeating the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party remains the primary objective, the announcement has fuelled speculation that GFP is positioning itself for a stronger standalone role.
Despite the expansion push, GFP maintained that it would support Congress in the upcoming Ponda bypoll and not field its own candidate there. Party leaders, however, indicated that grassroots feedback and organisational growth would guide future decisions on alliances.
General Secretary (Organisation) Durgadas Kamat said the party was responding to public demand while simultaneously building its independent strength. “People want an alliance, but we must also grow as a party,” he noted, underscoring a dual strategy of cooperation and consolidation.
Reinforcing this approach, General Secretary Prashant Naik said GFP would create blocks across constituencies to rebuild momentum and energise its cadre base”seen as a key step towards contesting more seats on its own strength.
The party also used the platform to sharpen its political positioning. Joint Secretary Vikas Bhagat voiced support for ongoing agitations like the Mirabag protest and the “Enough is Enough” campaign, aligning the party with grassroots issues and public sentiment.
Meanwhile, GFP leaders closed ranks behind party president Vijai Sardesai amid criticism from sections of the opposition. Lolienkar defended Sardesai’s decision to remain in the Assembly, stating it was aimed at demanding a Vote on Account through constitutional means.
Executive Member Fredy Travasso also sought to ease tensions within the opposition, referring to remarks involving Congress leaders. He noted that AICC Goa in-charge Manikrao Thakare had distanced the party from statements made by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao against Sardesai.
