Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jun 1: Amid ongoing political developments within the Goa Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has reiterated its willingness to join hands with opposition parties ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, stressing the need for a united front to challenge the BJP's long-standing rule in the state.

AAP Goa president Valmiki Naik said the party remains open to a pre-poll alliance with the Congress and other like-minded political groups, regardless of internal changes or leadership issues within the Congress.

According to Naik, the Congress, being the principal opposition party in Goa, should take the initiative in bringing together opposition forces and creating a broad-based alliance capable of presenting a credible alternative to the ruling BJP.

"We are open to an alliance with the Congress despite any differences. The Congress should take the lead in building a united opposition platform," he said.

Naik emphasised that the primary objective for opposition parties should be to weaken the BJP's electoral dominance and work collectively towards political change in the state. He argued that all available options, including electoral alliances, should be explored to maximise the opposition's chances in the 2027 elections.

Calling for an early start to coalition-building efforts, Naik said discussions on seat-sharing and alliance frameworks should begin well in advance rather than being postponed until the final stages of the election campaign.

He further stated that the purpose of any alliance should extend beyond merely securing power. Instead, he said, opposition parties should focus on offering a new governance model after nearly 15 years of BJP rule in Goa.

As part of this effort, Naik proposed the preparation of a Common Minimum Programme (CMP) through extensive public consultation across the state. Such a document, he said, would help ensure that the alliance's agenda reflects the aspirations, concerns and priorities of Goan citizens.

The AAP leader also highlighted the need for confidence-building measures among alliance partners and voters alike. He noted that opposition parties would have to convince the electorate that any coalition government formed after the elections would remain stable, united and capable of completing its full five-year term.

His remarks come at a time when discussions around opposition unity are gaining momentum ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls, with political parties assessing potential strategies to counter the BJP's entrenched position in Goa's political landscape.