Team Herald
PANJIM: Following the intervention of Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar in the war of words between Urban Development Minister Francis D’Souza and Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo, the two MLAs have partially agreed not to engage in a verbal spat.
Parrikar had scheduled a meeting with D’Souza and Lobo on Thursday to sort out differences between the two. However, the meeting, that was also attended by some BJP functionaries and lasted for less than 30 minutes, did not see a major breakthrough. Nevertheless, Parrikar asked the two BJP MLAs not to indulge in a verbal duel.
Lobo, who walked out of the complex along with the CM after the meeting denied any differences with D’Souza stating that his remarks about a flood-like situation in Mapusa should not anger anyone. “I have no issues with Mapusa MLA and Urban Development Minister (D’Souza). I have nothing personal against him. What I spoke was in the interest of the people of North Goa and also people of Mapusa,” he told reporters.
Citing that he has often taken criticism positively, the MLA advised D’Souza – albeit without naming him – to adopt this attitude.
While the CM refused to speak to the media, Lobo questioned about how the CM reacted to the differences between him and D’Souza, said, “CM said there should not be a fight and it is not good.” It is learnt that the CM has instructed them not to speak and that he will speak when required.
Reiterating that he holds no grievance against Lobo, the Mapusa MLA too denied differences between them provided Lobo does not provoke him. The two neighbouring MLAs conceded that issue is resolved.
“If he (Lobo) speaks, I will speak. If he has differences, it will continue. I don’t start anything. There are no differences but he (Lobo) started and I didn’t like it,” D’Souza told the media.
The senior party leader declined to hold any interaction with Lobo after the latter complained about Mapusa’s poor development. D’Souza replied, “Why should I call? I am not concerned about it. I am never angry. I don’t speak angrily to anyone. I need a reason to speak. I am not a mad person to keep on talking and I don’t need headlines to get publicity. About the flooding in Mapusa, the same situation is witnessed in other parts of Goa too and not only this constituency.”
Lobo, who in 2014 had backed D’Souza to be the CM of Goa, claims he still respects the minister for he has helped him in his constituency (Calangute).
“I respect him a lot. He is our senior minister and he is one person who has even helped me in my constituency. I do not have anything against him. All issues are resolved,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker, at the same time, refuted charges leveled by D’Souza that he was greedy for a portfolio. On being asked by the journalists to comment on this allegation, Lobo said, “I am not greedy for a portfolio. I have cabinet rank status and it is enough for me. When CM wants to make me a minister, he will make it.”
