Faleiro new CLP chief

MUMBAI, September 21: Former chief minister Pratapsinh Rane, whose government was toppled two months ago, has been removed as leader of the Congress Legislature Party CLP. Rane, whose ouster was mooted by the Congress high command in New Delhi, handed over the reins to former industries minister, Luizinho Faleiro, who was elected as the new CLP chief today. The changeover took place in the presence of party observer R L Bhatia.

As is the wont in the Congress party, Faleiro8217;s name was proposed by Rane himself. It was seconded by former power minister Mauvin Godinho.

Despite having his government thrown out of office by defectors led by his former deputy Dr Wilfred D8217;Souza, Rane managed to be recognised as the leader of the Opposition thanks to his ally, Speaker Tomazinho Cardozo. At that time Faleiro, Godinho and other Congress MLAs told the high command that Rane was responsible for the party8217;s ouster and must cease to be CLP leader.