From Sanjay Borkar
Daijiworld Media Network—Margao (CN)

Margao, Oct 31: Cairperson of Margao Municipal Council (MMC) Johnson Fernandes, tendered his resignation to the directorate of municipal administration following heavy pressure by chief minister Digamber Kamath. 

Of the 20 councillors, 11 had served an ultimatum to Fernandes seeking a no-confidence motion in the event that he doesn’t step down voluntarily. Fernandes had not succumbed to the ultimatum. But after the intervention of the chief minister, he bowed out.

Speaking to mediapersons, Fernandes alleged that Kamath had pressurized him to quit office to make way for the latter’s supporter. He remarked that if his resignation helps the development of Margao, then he was willing to oblige. 

According to Fernandes, those who were to sign the no confidence motion, were assured by Kamath that funds would be provided council for development work.

Although experts opine that there should be no political interference in the councils, but not a single file moves without the blessings of the politicians. Thus Margao Municipality has always remained in the limelight over the selection of a chairperson.  Now and then, it also witnessed the drama of no-confidence motions.

Councillors had also planned to pull down the vice-chairperson, Narayan Fondekar, a BJP supporter. But he has refused to step down. He has said that he is ready to face the motion.  So, there could be more political drama in store.