Party building would be my priority, says new Goa Congress chief

Luizinho Faleiro will replace outgoing chief John Fernandes, who is known for his disciplinary actions

Expressing that he is back after an eight-year hiatus, newly appointed Goa Congress unit chief Luizinho Faleiro has said his priority would be to strengthen the party organisation in the state.

"I don't know what was happening in the state for last eight years. I will have to check now. I am back from eight year long 'tapasya'(meditation)," said Faleiro who was nominated as Goa chief by All India Congress Committee on Tuesday.

Faleiro will replace outgoing chief John Fernandes, who is known for his disciplinary actions against several veteran leaders during his tenure.

Once he takes over the charge next week, he will chalk out a three-month plan for the party, Faleiro said.

"Building a party organisation, unity and discipline would be prime on my agenda," said the former state Chief Minister and AICC secretary, who was incharge of north eastern states and Karnataka before being given the new assignment.

The Congress leaders need to introspect as to why the party was reduced to single digit minority during the 2012 Goa Assembly polls, he said.

"We failed to create young elders in the party. When I say leaders I don't mean those asking for ticket, but those working for the party and taking up organisational responsibilities," said Faleiro.

He claimed that he was hundred per cent sure that the party will come to power in Goa after the next Assembly polls.

When asked about disciplinary action initiated against veteran leaders by his predecessor John Fernandes, Faleiro said, "Has there been any action taken? I don't know. I will have to check it. I told you I am back from 'tapasya'.