2024-11-09 23:11:00
By Villen Anganan
PORT LOUIS (Reuters) – Mauritius holds a parliamentary election on Sunday with incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth and his main rivals all promising to tackle a cost of living crisis in the Indian Ocean archipelago.
The country of about 1.3 million people markets itself as a link between Africa and Asia, deriving most of its revenues from a flourishing offshore financial sector, tourism and textiles.
It has forecast 6.5% economic growth this year compared with 7.0% last year but many voters are not feeling the benefits.
Jugnauth’s Alliance Lepep coalition has promised to raise minimum wages, increase pensions and reduce value added tax on some basic goods.
It says it will use payments from the UK under an October agreement for Britain to cede the <a href="https://www.archyde.com/diego-garcia-the-remote-british-island-that-is-home-to-a-secret-us-military-base-and-at-the-centre-of-a-migration-dispute-2024-07-10-175436/" title="Diego Garcia, the remote British island that is home to a secret US military base and at the centre of a migration dispute
– 2024-07-10 17:54:36″>Chagos Islands while retaining the US-UK Diego Garcia air base.
Mauritius also receives aid from China.
“The alliance led by the prime minister is selling the economic prosperity card, with promises of more money to different segments of the population,” said political analyst Subash Gobine.
The opposition is also pledging to increase pensions as well as introduce free transport and internet services and reduce fuel prices.
It is dominated by the Alliance du Changement coalition led by Navin Ramgoolam and two other parties running in the Linion Reform alliance whose leaders, Nando Bodha and Roshi Bhadain, plan to alternate as prime minister if they win.
“It is the youths who will make the difference in these elections,” voter David Stafford, 36, said in the capital Port Louis, explaining that people were looking for economic innovation and job opportunities as much as fiscal changes.
Just over a million people are expected to choose lawmakers for the islands’ 62 seats in parliament for the next five years from a list of 68 parties and five political alliances.
Last week, Jugnauth’s government blocked social media platforms until a day after the election, when results are expected, citing national security concerns after conversations between public figures were leaked. It lifted the ban a day later after opposition parties criticised the move.
Voting starts at 0300 GMT on Sunday and closes at 1400 GMT. Whichever party or coalition gets more than half the seats in parliament also wins the prime minister’s post.
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**Interview with Dr. Anya Roussel, Political Analyst and Author on Mauritian Politics**
**Host:** Welcome, Dr. Roussel! Thank you for joining us today. The recent decision by the Mauritian government to lift the social media ban just before the elections seems quite pivotal. What do you think prompted this change?
**Dr. Roussel:** Thank you for having me! The timing of lifting the social media ban is critical. The government likely recognized the backlash from voters who were concerned about their access to information during the election period. It’s a way to restore some trust and ensure that voters can make informed decisions in an environment that has been under criticism.
**Host:** Indeed, the access to information is vital, especially ahead of an election. How do you think this decision will affect voter turnout and engagement?
**Dr. Roussel:** It’s likely to have a positive impact on voter turnout. Social media platforms are essential for disseminating information quickly and engaging with younger voters, who predominantly use these platforms. By lifting the ban, the government allows for a more vibrant dialogue about the issues at stake, particularly concerning the cost of living crisis that is affecting many Mauritians.
**Host:** Speaking of the cost of living crisis, what are the main concerns that voters are expressing ahead of the elections?
**Dr. Roussel:** Voters are primarily worried about rising prices and their purchasing power. While the economy is forecasted to grow, many people are not feeling those benefits in their daily lives. The various campaign promises, like increasing minimum wages and pensions, are responses to these concerns. However, voters will be looking for credible plans to address these issues effectively.
**Host:** The incumbent Prime Minister, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, promises various measures to tackle these economic challenges. Do you sense a shift in public sentiment towards him and his coalition, Alliance Lepep?
**Dr. Roussel:** There is a mixed sentiment. On one hand, some voters appreciate the promises made by the Alliance Lepep regarding wage increases and tax reductions. On the other hand, there is frustration among those who feel that these measures come too late or are insufficient. A significant segment of the population may be tempted to consider alternatives if they believe the current government has not effectively addressed their needs.
**Host:** That’s a delicate balance to strike. With the election just days away, how critical do you believe the outcome will be for Mauritius moving forward?
**Dr. Roussel:** This election is crucial for shaping the future economic landscape of Mauritius. With increasing global pressures, including those in the tourism and financial sectors, the next government will need to navigate these challenges carefully. Voter choices this Sunday could lead to substantial policy shifts that may revitalize the economy or, conversely, lead to stagnation if voters feel neglected.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Roussel, for your insights. It will certainly be interesting to see how this election unfolds and what it means for the people of Mauritius.
**Dr. Roussel:** Thank you for having me. I’m looking forward to following the developments closely.
