Skippers, seniors, anti-vax supporters and parents protest against Government

Skippers, pensioners, anti-mandatory vax supporters and parents of students tired of the COVID-19 situation in schools have demonstrated in front of Mauritius Parliament on Monday, February 14.

The four protests were organised by social activist Ivann Bibi, split up into four groups – each group having its own spokesperson.

Equipped with signboards, the four groups denounced the “inaction of the government” on several issues, Le Mauricien newspaper reported.

Pensioners deplored the loss of purchasing power and demanded that pension be increased, as was reportedly promised by the government of PM Pravind Jugnauth.

Skippers claimed they didn’t receive adequate compensation after the grounding of the MV Wakashio at Pointe d’Esny in 2020.

The Facebook live video can be viewed here.

Parents also joined the protest, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Leela-Devi Dookun.

The newspaper said the parents were very critical against what they described as flawed COVID-19 protocols in schools.

Media reports claim that the number of cases registered in schools have soared exponentially since classes resumed last week, culminating with the death of a 16-year-old student during the week-end.

At the Place d’Armes, facing the ‘Government House’ – which houses several ministries and the Parliament – demonstrators condemned the “pressure” exerted on those who are against mandatory vaccination. On February 19, a bunch of regulations will make it impossible for those who are not vaccinated to have access to several public areas.

“We have the right to say NO”, they asserted.