The Goan: In one sentence, why should people vote for you?
Joshua D’Souza: I am young and have a clean image with no baggage. I believe in taking everyone together and doing what is best for the people of Mapusa and Goa at large.
TG: If you are part of the government, which is the first legislation you would like to pass in the assembly?
JD: Definitely, a law that will preserve the heritage and culture of Goa which is very dear to all of us Goans.
TG: Which is that one leader outside your party that you admire as a politician and why?
JD: It has to be Pratapsingh Rane. He’s knowledgeable and commands respect. Also, he executes his duties well. I liked the way he used to conduct the assembly sessions when he was the Speaker of the House.
TG: Who would be your CM choice, should your party come into power?
JD: I always had high regard for Manohar Parrikar. Now, Pramod Sawant is trying to fill Parrikar’s shoes. So my choice for CM is Pramod Sawant.
TG: Do you justify a merger by 2/3rd or do you consider it as a move against the mandate of people? Explain.
JD: It depends on the situation. In the last election in Goa, the opposition could not form the government due to leadership issues within its party and therefore the BJP pitched in to provide the best alternative to the people. Depending on the situation we need to find an alternative and move forward.
TG: Do you feel the 2022 election will throw a clear winner? Who are your top three finishers along with seats they are likely to win?
JD: The work done in the last 10 years will allow the BJP to be the single-largest party in the State. Either Congress or AAP could emerge runners-up.
