From Sanjay Borkar in Margao
Daijiworld Media Network - Margao (SP)

Margao, Mar 20:  The Congress has not yet announced the names of its candidate for the Lok Sabha election from the state. However, the United Goans Democratic Party on Thursday March 19, declared suave politician and former minister Mathany Saldanha as the party’s south Goa candidate for the Lok Sabha election.

Saldanha, who has a clean image and high reputation amongst politicians and the people alike, has always raised his voice against the unwanted systems and has fought for the welfare of Goans. But, as he has close relationship with some  key Bhartiya Janata Party functionaries, rumours were making the rounds, that his (Mathany) candidature is aimed at dividing the votes of the Congress, for helping the  BJP. When questioned on this rumour, Saldanha rubbished them and said,  he is committed to work for the welfare of the people of the constituency and the state. "I do not want to play politics with my people," he clarified.

Saldanha said that there is a need to address the issues of Special Economic Zones, special status for Goa, illegal mining and other issues that are bothering the state.

Currently Saldanha has raised his voice to save the houses of traditional fishermen that fall under the Coastal Regulatory Zone periphery. His agitations have forced the government to examine modalities and possibilities of saving these houses. 

He stressed on the need for a change, a change in politics, change in values and change in attitude.

Party general secretary Anacleto Viegas informed that the party's candidate for North Goa constituency will be announced on Saturday. Party president Dr Jorson  Fernandes and  joint secretary Radharao Gracias were also present at the press conference held in the city.