In the context of the Mauritius election, the initial decision to ban access to social media ahead of the general elections sparked strong reactions among the island’s residents. The justification given was based on a phone-tapping scandal that occurred last month, where conversations, including those of political figures, were leaked on social media, jeopardizing national security and integrity.
Among the most shocking elements revealed in these leaks was a recording involving a police commissioner apparently asking a forensic pathologist to change the autopsy report of a suspect beaten in police custody. This revelation sent shockwaves through the population and raised questions about transparency and ethics within Mauritian institutions.
Faced with widespread outrage, the authorities eventually relented and decided not to maintain the social media ban until after the elections. This about-face follows growing pressure from opposition parties, local media groups and civil society, who have criticised the negative impact of such a measure on the democratic process and the country’s economy.
Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth announced that an investigation was underway to identify those responsible for the phone leaks and that several people had already been arrested. This initiative aims to restore public trust in institutions and ensure transparency in the upcoming elections.
This case highlights the crucial importance of social media in the contemporary political landscape, as a vector of information and citizen surveillance. While social networks can be used for malicious purposes, they remain an essential tool for the free flow of ideas and holding authorities accountable.
In this sense, the lesson to be learned from this episode is the need to frame and regulate the use of social media, while preserving freedom of expression and the right to information. The balance between national security and democracy must be constantly reassessed to ensure the healthy functioning of Mauritian society and respect for fundamental democratic values.