When the resumption of Parliament on Tuesday 4 February 2025, was announced, a new horizon was projected with a bright future. After years of turmoil, many envisioned a fresh era of civility, respect and genuine democratic values. The election results had clearly signaled Mauritians’ desire for change, transparency and accountability. The historic victory of Navin Ramgoolam and his allies, along with the appointment of a woman Speaker symbolizing hope for gender equality, heightened expectations for enlightened leadership focused on merit and the people’s welfare.
However, reality starkly contrasts these hopes. Instead of unity and professionalism, scenes of disarray, partisan brinkmanship and broken promises unfolded. The government, once expected to lead with integrity, appears mired in favoritism and neglect. The dawn of a new era has seemingly reverted to old tactics, with disillusionment growing among Mauritians who now question whether their leaders are truly committed to progress or merely riding the wave of populism. But what we see is the same kitchen, different cook, yet the same taste and the same rotten smell.
Similarly, political crises in Nepal, Bangladesh and France remind us that turmoil and leadership failures transcend borders, often leading nations into chaos. With a fragile economy driven by government missteps, Mauritius stands at a critical juncture — any mistake could be disastrous. Despite the transition from darkness to light, the country still faces the same issues, with the same old problems disguised by new faces. The hope for genuine change remains elusive, overshadowed by the persistent cycle of broken promises and disillusionment.
A Shockingly Violent Interpellation: A Wake-Up Call for Mauritian Society
On Friday 12 September 2025, the arrest and detention of journalist Jasodanand Narain were carried out by the Cybercrime Unit. The operation took place around midday at his residence in Floréal, during which his electronic devices were seized and a search was conducted. He was reportedly not allowed to contact his lawyer before being taken to the Casernes centrales and he was released on parole later that day.
The police involved were accused of using a violent modus operandi, sparking widespread outrage. The arrest was based on a Facebook post deemed defamatory by Tevin Sithanen, the complainant, in a process criticized for lacking transparency and legal rigor.
Despite his release, Narain’s computer remained in police custody. This incident occurred amid ongoing political tensions and allegations of corruption involving the Sithanen family, fueling fears of police abuse and the erosion of democratic principles. Many unresolved cases, such as the investigation into Soopramanien Kistnen’s death, the BAI scandal amongst so many others, contrast sharply with this arrest, which is seen as an example of the government’s increasing reliance on intimidation tactics. This event highlights a troubling trend where critics and independent voices are silenced through force and repression, serving as a stark wake-up call for Mauritian society.
A Call for Responsibility, Reflection and Genuine Leadership
This dissonance between expectation and reality underscores a pressing need for responsibility. Leaders must realize that their actions — or lack thereof — have lasting impacts on the nation’s future. Whether it is Ramgoolam and Berenger nearing the end of their political journeys or the current administration seeking redemption, the legacy they leave should be one of integrity and meaningful achievement, not just survival in power.
It is crucial that the government, regardless of who is at the helm, recognizes the importance of leaving a positive imprint. The mistakes of the past, including mismanagement, broken promises and favoritism, should serve as lessons, not just political rhetoric. Mauritius’s future depends on honest leadership that prioritizes the nation’s well-being over personal gain.
Furthermore, the principle of “the right people at the right place” remains an elusive goal. All too often, we hear parliamentarians justify nepotism and favoritism by claiming they must prioritize those who have worked for them during the general elections, regardless of whether they possess the necessary skills, integrity and competence. This approach risks turning the government into a mechanism of incompetence, where the focus shifts from effective governance to patronage. When unqualified individuals — especially the elderly — and those with complex histories assume key positions, the entire system is negatively impacted, leading to ineffective policies, inadequate service delivery and ultimately societal deterioration.
Mauritius deserves Leaders who understand that good governance is based on merit, transparency and accountability. Only then can we hope to build a resilient, prosperous and equitable society.
A Collective Responsibility
Ensuring that those in power serve the nation, not themselves, is our greatest challenge. It requires constant vigilance from citizens, responsible leadership, and a commitment to ethical governance. Mauritians must demand transparency and tangible progress, rejecting empty promises and populist tactics.
Leaders must reflect on the trust placed in them, avoid past mistakes, and work sincerely for all citizens. True leadership is measured by lasting achievements, not fleeting popularity.
Mauritius stands at a crossroads. Without concrete action, hopes risk fading into disillusionment. Some exploit systemic loopholes for personal gain, widening the gap between rulers and citizens. Our core values—peace, justice, and liberty—are at stake, undermined by corruption and inequality.
Our nation cannot face these challenges alone. We need unity, integrity, and collective effort to rebuild trust and create a future where these ideals truly belong to everyone. Long live Mauritius, as one people, one nation.