Herald: You took quite a plunge into politics. Being pushed into the deep end of the pool, on the last day of nominations, how has the experience been?
Seoula Vas: I have been an aspirant for months and was prepared to contest. I kept everything ready in case I was fortunate to be chosen. So it never felt like the deep end and my ground work, recognition in the constituency and the cause gave me the confidence to proceed.
Herald: What made you feel that you could take on two experienced leaders who have facing off with each other?
SV: I have always taken up what others consider difficult with great ease. If there’s anyone who can do this, it’s me.
Herald: You are an established professional, with a career ahead in law and jurisprudence. And you are in a profession where you can work till late in life. How will politics and law run in a parallel fashion or will one be sidelined later?
SV: Politics should not exist without law. My legal knowledge helps me everyday to serve the people, take up issues and bring them to their logical conclusion. I will never abandon law as it gives me peace of mind. But politics is definitely my calling and both will go together fantastically. In fact, every great legislator has to be a legal mind. Politics is only required to negotiate power.
Herald: Fatorda has been pitched as a template for development by the local MLA. What is your narrative for Fatorda?
SV: Not a narrative, but a fact. Time and time again I’ve said that beautifying is not development. The only new infrastructure or landmark we see is the MLA’s private bungalow on fields. Other projects are benches along the road to accommodate youngsters who ate without jobs. Raw sewage is an assault to the senses and open garbage an insult to the urban status of the suburb.
Herald: You represent a generation that is increasingly getting disillusioned with politics. We are still looking for young faces with no baggage. How do see your candidature as a step towards correcting that?
SV: I have taken this great step for the people. I heard them say they wanted someone clean and educated. This is an answer to their prayers. They should not fall for corrupt politician’s vote split propaganda. It is like saying you should never elect a good candidate. Fear psychosis in politics will be ended forever by me.
Herald: Your party has been in Goa for a little over three months. With your entry and fighting on a new party’s symbol, how was that a challenge both for you and your party?
SV: A big challenge that was handled professionally by expert consultants. The doubts and difficulties have been successfully overcome.
Herald: What are your priorities for Fatorda and how will you align them with your party’s priorities?
SV: My priority is to make Fatorda sewage-free. Secondly I want to set up job opportunities close to the home. My party listens to me which is why I’m comfortable working with them for the people. It’s a good fit.
Herald: Give a sneak peek about your working style and your role as a people’s representative
SV: I’m meticulous and instinctive. I use empathy with logic which is a perfect combination for problem solving. Some say I’m friendly… Being result oriented I don’t raise issues without resolution. With me around, people will have a direct bridge to the Assembly. My doors will always be open for everyone as it has been all this while.
