Media Release
Dubai, Jul 11: Emirates Konkans Kasargod (EKKU), one of the leading associations of the Konkani-speaking community from Kasargod residing in the UAE, recently held its general body meeting and unanimously elected a new executive committee for the 2026–2028 term. Edward Monteiro of Bela has been elected as the president, while Deepak D’Souza of Maniyampare has been chosen as the secretary.
Edward Monteiro, a native of Bela parish in Kasargod district, has been residing in the UAE with his family for the past 15 years. A dedicated social worker and active community leader, he has previously served EKKU in various capacities with distinction. He has also been actively involved in several social, sports, and political organizations. During his time in India, he served as the president of ICYM Bela unit and later as an office bearer of the ICYM Kasargod deanery. Since moving to the UAE, Edward has been an integral part of EKKU since its formative years and has made significant contributions to the association's growth.
The newly elected secretary, Deepak D’Souza, hails from Maniyampare in the Kasargod deanery. A committed member of EKKU for the past ten years, he has successfully handled various responsibilities within the association and is well known for his dedication and organizational skills.
The meeting commenced with an introductory address by EKKU founder president Santhosh Perla, who highlighted the vision and objectives of the association. He expressed his appreciation to all former presidents, executive committee members, and volunteers for their collective efforts in strengthening EKKU over the years.
Outgoing president Laila D'Souza thanked the executive committee and all members for their unwavering support and cooperation during his tenure, and wished the newly elected team every success in taking the association to greater heights.
The newly elected office bearers for the 2026–2028 term are:
• President: Edward Monteiro (Bela)
• Secretary: Deepak D’Souza (Maniyampare)
• Vice president: Stegita (Kumbla)
• Treasurer: Preethesh (Ukkinadka)
• Cultural & sports secretary: Rohith D'Souza
• Event coordinators: Mithun (Kumbla) and Jeethesh (Ukkinadka)
• Cultural secretary: Rony (Bela)
• Media & communication: Sujay (Bela)
• Former president: Laila D'Souza
Executive Committee Members: Santhosh Crasta (Talapady), Roy D'Souza (Narampady), Preethi D'Cunha (Bela), Renita Ferrao (Bela), Flavan (Narampady), Vinola (Narampady), Lancy (Kollangana), Joyal (Narampady), Royston (Bela), Milton (Kumbla), Alwyn (Bela), Ozwin (Kayyar), Criston Monteiro (Majeshwar), Raju (Bela), and Jobby D'Souza (Kayyar).
Directors: Santhosh Perla and Vincent (Kasargod)
The newly elected committee reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening unity among the members of Kasargod deanery in the UAE while promoting cultural, social, charitable, and sporting activities. The team also expressed its determination to build upon EKKU's achievements and continue serving the community with dedication and enthusiasm over the coming two years.