In Mauritius, the date for legislative elections has not yet been determined, but preparations have already commenced this week. The five-year term of Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth’s government will expire in November 2024. The island’s major political forces have chosen May 1st to kick off their campaigns.
The atmosphere unmistakably resembles an election campaign, even though the date for the legislative elections has not been set. The Alliance led by Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth (comprising the Militant Socialist Movement, the Militant Liberation Movement, and the Militant Unity Movement) gathered its supporters in the town of Vacoas.
In front of an orange-clad crowd, his Minister of Social Security and National Solidarity, Fazila Jeewa-Daureeawoo, extolled the government’s achievements, including the increase in pensions for retirees: “Since 2014, we have increased pensions by 10,000 rupees (approximately 200 euros) comrades.”
Opposition Promises Free Public Transport
Meanwhile, the opposition congregated on one of the capital’s main avenues, Sir-Seewoosagur-Ramgoolam Street. Under the leadership of Navin Ramgoolam, in a renewed alliance with Paul Bérenger, their coalition (comprising the Labour Party, the Mauritian Militant Movement, and the New Democrats) raised the stakes by promising free public transportation and internet access. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Arvin Boolell rallied the crowd, waving red and mauve flags: “Mobilize, Mauritius, to explore new horizons and build a new Mauritius.”
The government’s mandate expires in November 2024. The Prime Minister, who, according to the Constitution of Mauritius, holds the exclusive right to set the election date, will choose the most opportune moment for his party to call the country to the polls.