New NGO vows to play role of watchdog

To keep tabs on govt policies; demand early finalisation of RP 2021 

TEAM HERALD

teamherald@herald-goa.com

MARGAO: A new non-governmental Organisation Goans for Goa (GFG) headed by Kennedy Afonso was launched on Thursday with the objective of acting as a watchdog on government policies and to demand early finalisation of RP 2021 and ensure devolution of powers to panchayat bodies.

While many an eyebrow was raised over the presence of close aides of former PWD Minister Churchill Alemao in the organisation, Kennedy asserted that GFG is an apolitical organisation and not associated with any politician. 

“There may be some members in the GFG who might have worked with the former PWD Minister, but our organisation is apolitical,” he said. While Churchill’s close aide Prashant Naik is GFG’s treasurer, former PA to the PWD Minister Fredrick Borges is the joint treasurer. He said the formation of the NGO has nothing to do with the coming Lok Sabha polls, asserting that GFG will not contest any election.

Addressing the media, Kennedy said the GFG will set up Village Advisory Councils in every village to preserve, protect and nurture the multifaceted ethos of Goa. “We will demand that the government puts in place the long-delayed RP 2021. We will also demand powers to the gram sabhas and devolution of powers to panchayat bodies as per the Constitution,” he added.

Replying to a question, he said that GFG has not adopted any stand on the Mopa airport, saying it would be deliberated and discussed before taking a final stand on the issue.

The Executive Committee has appointed Adv Mike Mehta as GFG’s honorary member. GFG’s executive committee comprises president Kennedy Afonso, VP, north Victor Gonsalves, VP, South Raul Pereira, Secretary Simon Fernandes, joint secretary Michael D’Souza, treasurer Prashant Naik, joint treasurer Fredrick Borges, besides 20 other executive members.