Goa Key Candidate

Former minister Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate has emerged as a key contender in Goa as his political clout extends beyond the Taleigao constituency he rose from. Hailing from the once agricultural village of Taleigao on the outskirts of capital Panaji, Monserrate quickly earned the nickname 'strongman' for his ability to consistently win his seat - 2002, 2005 and 2007. Each time, he was made a minister. In 2012, he changed constituencies and contested from neighbouring Santa Cruz, while his wife Jennifer contested from Taleigao. In 2017, Monserrate fought from Panaji but lost to BJP's Siddharth Kuncaliencar. But, he took his chance following Parrikar's passing away and won the seat in the 2019 defeating Kuncaliencar and moved to the BJP soon after.