Expats dismayed over state's political uncertainty http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/07/07/27/10142177.htm
By Alaric Gomes and Randolph Barros, Staff Reporters Published: July 26, 2007, 22:52 Dubai: Non-resident Indians from Goa residing in the UAE have lambasted the fall of the Congress-led government in the western state. Most were disgusted with the constant battle for power, defections from parties and dislodging of governments. "Our politicians in Goa are horrible. It looks like the Chief Minister [Digambar Kamat] managed to make at least Rs490 million (Dh 45.5 million) during the 49 days he was in power heading the coalition," Anthony Fernandes, a UAE-based journalist told Gulf News. "It is ironical that the government lasted just 49 days as Indian television channels were showing old clippings of Kamat in the company of Churchill Alemao and Babush Monserrate last night. Goa will never be able to have a stable and steady government as long as the elected members have shady backgrounds," Fernandes stated. "Most of the breakaway MLAs have a gangster track record, or go through the Customs files and see who has got what case registered against him," he added. Liban Dias, a hotel industry executive said, "Politics in Goa is all about making money. Politicians are not concerned about the common man. They exert all their energies into staying in power. If they are not in power, their only focus is to topple the ruling party. It is disgusting" Nandita D'Costa, an advertising account manager had one word to say: "Again!" D'Costa said, "The political situation is so unstable. I don't have any faith in the government. Politicians jump parties at the drop of a hat. Everyone is so fed up." Vivian Silva, a shipping operations manager said: "It is always happening. I don't understand too much of politics, but it is not the right thing to happen as it affects stability and development of the state. They are not humans, they are just politicians like anywhere in the world." "Our politicians are a bunch of jokers. They have learnt to circumvent the system and the ones to suffer are the people of Goa," said Shirley Carneiro, a senior banker. "If they were genuinely interested in the welfare of the people then they would have opted for a government that is stable so that there is all-round development and prosperity. Our politicians are only interested in making money at the cost of the ones who vote for them," she added. Tony Fernandes, a promotions executive said: "The situation has gone from bad to worse. These politicians only want money and power. They are not bothered about the electorate."