The recent statement of Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas drawing parallels between Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Goa's first CM Dayanand Bandodkar has sparked controversy, raising questions about political integrity and exposing the fragility of opposition unity in Goa. During a public event in Benaulim on January 16, Viegas praised Sawant’s uniform development initiatives across constituencies and likened it to Bandodkar's tenure; parallels were also drawn on education reforms. The comparison was met with sharp criticism, and political voices were hounding the Benaulim MLA.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai responded vocally, deeming Venzy's comments "amusing and superficial." The irony of the opposition’s disarray was palpable as Sardesai highlighted Venzy's historical disapproval of the current government, questioning his sudden affinity for Sawant’s administration. “Benaulim voters are wise,” Sardesai asserted, suggesting that they could see through Viegas’s remarks, hinting at a political opportunism that might not align with the constituency’s values. In a fierce rebuttal, Venzy said that Sardesai is focused on personal development agenda and self-promotion with a desire for power and control rather than genuine concern for Goa.
While Venzy and Sardesai went hammer and tongs at each other, leaders like MGP's Sudin Dhavalikar and AAP’s Amit Palekar echoed sentiments of caution, urging fellow politicians to refrain from using Bandodkar's legacy as a weapon in party politics. The Revolutionary Goans Party too jumped into the melee trying to hit out at AAP over its often-used "B-team of BJP" jibe.
The criticism of Venzy has been as bizarre as his utterances, both having politics written all over. Venzy praised Sawant but seemed oblivious to his previously vocal critiques of the government's failures in education and development. This abrupt shift raises questions about Venzy's motivations. Was this a genuine change of heart, constructive appraisal or merely a strategic manoeuvre born of desperation to appease?
On the flip side, the unsavoury exchanges have raised questions over the ambitions of political leaders and whether they are truly invested in the state’s welfare. Have they led by examples of principled governance? The remarks may have inadvertently illuminated the murky waters of hypocrisy and political opportunism. The political divide and the associated desperation are as clear as daylight.
So, where does this take the Opposition? The Congress, AAP and the Goa Forward Party have worked closely in recent times bringing a new dimension to the fore. The Lok Sabha election in South Goa was a classic case where the unity was in full flow. This episode has not only derailed that balance but also provoked players to take contrasting positions. It has become increasingly apparent that the fragile unity within the opposition is rapidly fraying with members seemingly more concerned about personal agendas than cohesive governance.
The bottom line is that mere rhetoric on the State's identity, development and historical legacy will not work, and these cannot be reduced to mere soundbites or superficial comparisons. As the political spectacle of 2027 inches closer, true leadership will be judged by the ability to navigate discussions with integrity and purpose. The comparisons will fade away, and the deceiving arguments will die out, but genuine and inclusive governance will stand out. Goans would eventually look through partisan bickering and individual agendas.
