There is no doubt that we have missed Raj Dayal. Not for his political prowess nor for his intellectual capabilities as highlighted in his extensive curriculum vitae. We missed Dayal because he was the pantomime villain that we all needed. He was the face of a randomly put together government that has little in common other than its opposition to the much maligned Labour Party/MMM coalition.

After his resignation from the Ministry of Environment and the significant corruption case hovering over him, Dayal’s colourful personality had disappeared into the wilderness. We were left with similarly (un)able ministers who were far less entertaining. It is true that it is not the job of an MP to make us laugh but we have to make the best of what we have. When you take your time and think that the likes of Ravi Rutnah, Yogida Sawmynaden and Roshi Bhadain might be here for a few more years, you can do no better than laugh it off. The worst part is that the legitimate alternative to the faltering Alliance Lepep is not out there yet, no matter what the opposition would like us to believe.

Well, keeping up with his image, Dayal decided to liven up things and make a relatively damning statement regarding PPS Thierry Henry. If you are not keeping tabs on the majority’s mishaps, Henry is the one who was involved in a car accident that left one person dead. He allegedly lied to the police and refused a breathalyser test. He is also the one who is still representing his constituents in the national assembly with no indication as to when his case will be resolved.

Dayal expressed his contempt at this current state of affairs. The former commissioner of police found it despicable that someone who possibly had blood on his hands was allowed to stay on. It would have been a laudable initiative but the truth is, all Dayal wants is consistency in his favour. He tried to pass it off as a subtle move but it was even more obvious than an Ivan Collendavelloo nap during an important meeting.

Dayal wants back in because he lives for that moment in the limelight. In his eyes, he was the scapegoat during a particularly difficult period for the government. To be fair, he is not completely wrong. Vishnu Lutchmeenaraidoo is still a minister, Thierry Henry is still a PPS and even Pravind Jugnauth has made a comeback. In the meantime, he has been left on the sidelines. There needs to be no confusion though. Whether his appeal for consistency is taken into account, Dayal should still be nowhere near a ministerial position. However, his innate desire to be taken seriously could prove to be a serious thorn in the side of the ruling coalition. No surrender Raj, no surrender! Unless he is found guilty in the corruption case then please surrender.

For more views and in-depth analysis of current issues, subscribe to Weekly for as little as Rs110 a month. Free delivery to your door. Contact us:touria.prayag@lexpress.mu