The Ex-South Goa ZP Chief Comeback has stirred fresh tension in the Congress camp ahead of the December 20 Zilla Panchayat elections. Former South Goa ZP chairperson Nelly Rodrigues now seeks the party ticket for the Colva seat, surprising several Congress workers already campaigning for Venicia Carvalho.
Nelly met party leaders and submitted a formal request, stressing her long association with the organisation and her work in strengthening the grassroots network. The Ex-South Goa ZP Chief Comeback also revived memories of her four-term representation of Colva, including her rise to ZP chairperson and her contribution to women’s political empowerment.
Meanwhile, Venicia has toured Majorda and Betalbatim and now heads toward Seraulim and Colva with strong support from local cadres. Many Congress workers argue that months of fieldwork should matter while deciding the final candidate.
District Congress president Savio D’Silva confirmed that the party received Nelly’s letter and will soon finalise its shortlist. With the Aam Aadmi Party fielding former Colva sarpanch Anthony Mam Fernandes, the contest promises a competitive three-way battle.
The Congress now faces a crucial choice—reward committed party workers or allow an experienced leader to reclaim her political space in Colva.
