Speaker Shuffle: MSM Government Eyeing Parliament Shake-Up

Sources close to the MSM indicate that the party is considering replacing the current Speaker, Adrien Duval, an ex-Deputy Speaker from the Mauritian Socialist Democratic Party (PMSD), before the dissolution of Parliament.

When questioned by l’Express, MSM leader Xavier-Luc Duval denied any negotiation at this stage, stating that there are clear solutions to be found at the National Assembly level.

However, he hinted that opposition deputies feel oppressed and believe the democratic space in Parliament is shrinking.

Duval’s departure could happen “quite soon,” possibly within the next week, if the proposal is agreed upon by both parties.

Sources close to PMSD insisting that Duval “wants to present himself as a candidate” in the elections.

In contrast, MSM officials claimed that a change of speaker could occur “very quickly” if the proposal is accepted.

The reason behind Duval’s potential departure is his alleged breach of protocol.

“He has crossed the line for quite some time, but instead of reining himself in, he goes even further,” explained a source close to Sun Trust.

While several l’Express’ sources claimed last week that an alliance between the two parties was almost concluded, Xavier-Luc Duval surprised observers by openly criticizing the electoral reform proposed by the Prime Minister in his speech on the project law.

Although his party did not vote against it, it abstained instead.

l’Express’ sources indicated that PMSD wants to bring about change and has already demonstrated its willingness to do so by cautioning a government that fails to sanction the Assembly Speaker and Commissioner of Police Anil Kumar Dip.

Other issues on PMSD’s agenda included reviving the Mauritius Turf Club, comprehensive education sector reforms, and reviewing the role of the Financial Crimes Commission in relation to bypassing the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The coincidence of T-shirts bearing logos from both MSM and PMSD parties being printed at the same factory has sparked speculation about a rapprochement between the two parties.

According to a PMSD insider, former Blue Minister Dan Baboo, who joined MSM in 2019, may be behind this initiative.

However, Baboo has denied any involvement. “I have nothing to do with these T-shirts,” he said.

“I haven’t even called Xavier-Luc Duval to clear up misunderstandings from 2019. The political situation is unclear right now. We’ll discuss it in two weeks.” added Baboo

Source: l’Express