ReA: A Form of Autocracy Has Taken Root in Mauritius

In an interview on the show “Au Cœur de l’Info” on Monday, September 16, Ashok Subron, a prominent figure from the political party Rezistans ek Alternativ (ReA), expressed his concerns regarding the current political climate in Mauritius, which he described as increasingly autocratic.

Subron, who shared the panel with hosts Mélanie Duval and Patrick Hilbert, discussed the ongoing collaboration between ReA and the Labour Party (PTr), the MMM (Mauritian Militant Movement), and the other parties in their alliance.

He indicated that negotiations have been underway for nearly two years, focusing on the “fine-tuning” needed before the anticipated dissolution of Parliament.

Rezistans ek Alternativ has secured two candidate slots from this coalition, with the potential for a third nomination.

Subron emphasized that the primary goal of this alliance is to remove Pravind Jugnauth from power.

“The guiding principle for ReA is understanding what these elections signify. They are occurring within a specific context and timeframe.

Given that the current government, led by Pravind Jugnauth, has been in power for two consecutive terms, we believe it is not appropriate for them to seek a third mandate,” he stated.

Subron criticized the current regime and claimed that a pivotal “red line” was crossed during the period of 2020-2021.

He attributed this to what he sees as the government’s failure, particularly concerning the death of a police officer in constituency number eight.

“Despite the efforts made to bring justice, the culprits remain at large, whether in Mauritius or abroad,” Subron lamented.

He further referenced the alleged tampering of a vehicle belonging to opposition figure Bruneau Laurette, which he believes spurred ReA’s decision to consolidate forces.

“The postponement of municipal elections further underscored this alarming trend,” he noted.

Subron reiterated his concerns about the emergence of what he described as a “form of autocracy,” marked by growing institutional conflicts, particularly between the police and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

He warned of a drift toward authoritarianism, potentially even fascism, within the political state.

The intentions of Rezistans ek Alternativ extend beyond simply opposing the current regime; they seek to amplify the voices of Mauritian citizens, workers, and environmental concerns in the forthcoming government.

Subron highlighted that they aim to implement systemic changes, including constitutional amendments.

Political analyst Abdallah Goolamallee, who also participated in the show via phone, expressed skepticism regarding the sustainability of the alliance.

“From my perspective, there are significant ideological differences between Rezistans ek Alternativ and the other coalition parties. I doubt this alliance will endure in the long term.

“Even the partnership between the MMM and the Labour Party resembles a forced marriage, likely lacking longevity,” he observed.

Jean-Claude Barbier from Linion Moris echoed similar sentiments, expressing disappointment with this coalition.

“Rezistans ek Alternativ is on the wrong side of history. There will now be a void in representation,” he remarked.

Conversely, political observer Dharam Gokhool argued that the alliance represents a significant shift in the political landscape, calling it a “game changer.”

He described it as “a historic and strategic union,” asserting that Rezistans ek Alternativ will play a crucial and decisive role within this coalition.

Source: Defi Media