Arvind Kejriwal announces 'Goa First' alliance with Goa Forward Party

Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced a pre-poll alliance with the Goa Forward Party (GFP) ahead of next year's Goa Assembly elections. The alliance, branded "Goa First", aims to offer voters an alternative to the BJP and Congress.

Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal alleged that the people of Goa had been "betrayed twice" by both the BJP and Congress and did not want a third betrayal. He criticised the current government as driven by "money and mafia rule", claiming Congress MLAs had helped the BJP form governments in the state. Kejriwal said builders and contractors wielded undue influence across sectors.

GFP president Vijai Sardesai said the alliance would provide an alternative political option. Kejriwal also indicated the AAP would be more cautious in selecting its Rajya Sabha nominees following past instances of party MPs leaving.