The electoral campaign in Mauritius reached its peak on Friday evening, ending six weeks of intense political debate and mobilisation. As the polls scheduled for Sunday 10 November draw to a close, the energy of the two major coalitions in the running, the People’s Alliance and the Alliance for Change, is palpable in the Mauritian atmosphere. More than a million voters are preparing to go to the polls in the island’s 21 constituencies, ready to exercise their democratic right.
The recent electoral battle in Mauritius has been marked by unexpected twists and turns. Despite the efforts of the outgoing majority to capitalise on the recent recognition of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Islands by the United Kingdom, an affair of illegal wiretapping has tarnished the campaign. The disclosure of these wiretappings, targeting journalists, politicians and influential figures, has highlighted controversial government practices and sparked public outrage.
The issue of the sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, while historical and symbolic, seems to have been overshadowed by more immediate concerns for Mauritian voters. Purchasing power, the fight against drugs and insecurity remain priority issues, demonstrating the will of citizens to see concrete solutions to their daily concerns.
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, leader of the People’s Alliance, initially hoped to take advantage of the recent diplomatic victory to strengthen his political position. However, the revelations surrounding the wiretapping scandal have cast a shadow over his election campaign, providing an opportunity for his main opponent, Navin Ramgoolam, leader of the Alliance for Change, to gain ground.
The temporary suspension of social media for national security reasons, followed by a rapid retraction in the face of popular pressure, has also marked this election campaign with a touch of controversy and twists.
In the aftermath of this intense period of political debate, electoral calm has returned, giving Mauritian citizens time to reflect and make their choice in complete serenity. Sunday’s poll will be an opportunity for the Mauritian people to express their democratic will and shape the political future of the country.
Ultimately, these legislative elections in Mauritius embody not only a crucial democratic exercise, but also a reflection of the concerns and aspirations of citizens. Political, economic and social issues are closely intertwined in this electoral process, highlighting the vital importance of citizen participation and the accountability of political actors towards their voters.