When a new Mayor is elected, for that customary first visit to the Chief Minister he is always accompanied by his Deputy and the supporting team of Corporators. But surprisingly this did not happen when Surendra Furtado solely called on Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. Was it a wrong start by the Mayor?
When the March 20th elections to the Mayor’s and Deputy Mayor’s post were abruptly postponed at the behest of the Chief Minister there was rightly outrage all over. The issue was not just about Surendra Furtado but the very high – handed trampling orchestrated by the Chief Minister over the democratic principles and procedures. Surendra Furtado over the last two weeks has harped all sorts of allegations against Manohar Parrikar. Some of which truly only exposed his immaturity, though he would like us to believe that he is a seasoned Corporator and the other 29 are “bachas”. After meeting and embracing the Chief Minister while referring to the events of the last fortnight, Surendra Furtado now says he has forgotten it all. But it is easier said than done. There could not have been a more unprincipled and devious stand by the person who is now the Mayor of Goa’s capital. Surendra Furtado would have to learn to carry his team along otherwise the outspoken like Kabir Makhija, Yatin Parekh and Rudresh Chodankar may not take it lying down. Over the years while in the Opposition Surendra Furtado raised various so called scams, scandals and irregularities at the Corporation of City of Panaji. Will he now also turn a Nelson’s eye to bury those past allegations? Will the Judas explain the behind the scene games which were played in the one-to-one tête-à-tête? And for how long this bonhomie will last, is just a matter of time. I have always said that the tail of a dog can never be straightened. Only time will tell who will draw blood first and have the last laugh. One is reminded of the words of Ronald Reagan "Politics is supposed to be the second oldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first" Aires Rodrigues T1 - B30, Ribandar Retreat Ribandar - Goa - 403006 Mobile: 9822684372