Mayor Rohit Monserrate on Wednesday announced that candidates have been finalised for all wards, with a conscious effort made to encourage several new and fresh faces to enter the fray. He said the process was completed after extensive discussions, keeping in mind the need for inclusive representation and leadership at the grassroots level.
Reacting to allegations surrounding casinos, Monserrate clarified that the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) has no authority to issue licences to casinos and accused his opponents of indulging in “cheap politics” to mislead the public.
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“The CCP has no role in granting casino licences. Such claims are completely false and aimed only at creating unnecessary controversy,” he stated.
Monserrate also addressed the controversy over a recently cancelled meeting, stating that he had informed councillor Valmiki about the cancellation a day in advance. However, he alleged that Valmiki misled others by claiming otherwise.
“I had personally informed him that the meeting was cancelled. I have proof to substantiate this,” the mayor asserted.
While reiterating that he does not support gambling or casinos, Monserrate acknowledged that the industry contributes to employment generation in the State.
“I am not in favour of gambling and casinos, but it is a fact that they provide jobs to many people,” he said, adding that discussions on such issues must be based on facts rather than political rhetoric.
