Daijiworld Media Network - Margao

Margao, Jul 16: The cycle of administrative instability has once again returned to haunt the residents of Margao, as the Goa government on Tuesday transferred Margao Municipal Council (MMC) Chief Officer Melvyn Vaz, replacing him with Madhu Narvekar—just three days ahead of a scheduled council meeting.

This marks the fourth leadership change at the helm of the Margao Municipal Administration in the past year. Vaz, who had been appointed as Chief Officer in September 2024, has been relieved before completing even a full year in office.

The instability began in July 2023, when then-Chief Officer Gaurish Sankhwalkar was abruptly removed during the Assembly session. He was replaced by Ajit Panchwadkar, who was already serving as the Director of the Social Welfare Department. However, Panchwadkar's dual responsibilities soon prompted another reshuffle, leading to Vaz's appointment last September.

Sources suggest that Vaz's relationship with key decision-makers in the civic body had deteriorated, although specific reasons for the transfer remain unclear.

When contacted, Melvyn Vaz confirmed that he had received the government’s transfer order. The constant leadership churn has raised concerns among locals over the continuity and efficiency of municipal governance, especially with the Margao Municipal Council set to convene on Friday.