Panaji's Political Landscape Shifts as Veteran Corporator Furtado Loses Seat
In a significant political development in Goa's capital, Surendra Furtado, a longstanding figure in Panaji's civic politics, has failed to secure re-election in ward 9. This marks the first time since Panaji attained corporation status that Furtado's name will not appear among the elected corporators, ending his uninterrupted tenure.
Election Results and Political Dynamics
Furtado was defeated by Kabir Pinto Makhija by a margin of 93 votes in a closely contested battle. Makhija, part of the BJP-backed 'Together for a Progressive Panaji' panel, was celebrated as a giant-killer following his victory over the seven-time councillor and former mayor. The election outcome was bittersweet for the Furtado family, as his son, Leonid Furtado, won from ward 7 with a 70-vote margin.
"The people of my ward decided I should not be elected," said Furtado, who holds the distinction of being the Corporation of the City of Panaji's (CCP) senior-most corporator. His defeat signals a shift in voter sentiment in the state capital.
Historical Context and Political Rivalries
Furtado's political journey has been marked by alliances and fallouts. Once an aide to revenue minister and Panaji MLA Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate, Furtado had a falling out with him a decade ago. In the recent election, he represented the Ami Panjekar panel floated by Utpal Parrikar.
Ironically, during Furtado's second term as mayor in 2014, Makhija served as his deputy, making him the youngest corporator to hold that position at the time. Both were then part of Babush's panel, highlighting the evolving political dynamics in Panaji.
Makhija's Rise and Furtado's Legacy
Kabir Makhija has been contesting CCP elections since 2011. In 2016, his sister Soraya won on the Babush-backed panel but lost her seat in the 2021 polls. Makhija was later inducted into the CCP as a co-opted member by Rohit Monserrate in April 2021. Reflecting on his victory, Makhija stated, "I managed to defeat the seven-time councillor and the ex-mayor. He is an experienced man and he has done a lot of good too. All eyes were on this ward."
Furtado was known for his vocal presence during CCP meetings, often challenging the mayor and commissioner on issues detrimental to Panaji. His absence from the corporation is expected to alter the discourse in future civic discussions.
Broader Implications for Panaji's Governance
This election result underscores the changing political winds in Panaji, with new faces like Makhija gaining ground against established veterans. The BJP-backed panel's success in ward 9 may influence future municipal strategies and alliances in the state capital.
As Panaji moves forward, the focus will be on how Makhija and other newly elected corporators address civic issues, while Furtado's legacy as a dedicated public servant remains a part of the city's political history.
