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“56 Years After Independence, We Must Fight for Our Freedom Again”

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"56 Years After Independence, We Must Fight for Our Freedom Again"
Image source: Defi Media

The Alliance for Change recently gathered supporters from constituencies 8, 9, and 10 at Petit-Verger in Saint-Pierre, where Navin Ramgoolam, leader of the Labour Party, addressed the crowd. Ramgoolam expressed regret over having allowed what he described as a “vampire” to rise to power in Mauritius.

During his speech, he emphasized the need for collective efforts to rectify the situation, stating, “We must do everything to bring back what was lost.”

According to Ramgoolam, Mauritius stands at a critical juncture, declaring that he has not been defeated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He accused the ruling Militant Socialist Movement (MSM) of usurping control of the country, asserting that the Labour Party played a crucial role in leading Mauritius to independence, which was formally achieved in 1968 following elections in 1967.

Ramgoolam insisted, “56 years later, we must fight once again for our freedom. Mauritians are struggling.”

Concerns Over Police Intervention

Ramgoolam expressed strong opposition to government interference in private life, which he believes is protected under the Constitution.

He added that citizens can no longer speak freely on the phone without fear of surveillance, stating, “Police are busy monitoring people instead of addressing criminal activity. Nowadays, if you speak, they will either silence you or plant evidence against you.”

He also criticized the methods employed by the Special Striking Team, arguing that if the Alliance for Change comes to power, the cabinet will make decisions rather than what he referred to as “the kitchen” behind the scenes.

Rising Cost of Living

On the issue of the cost of living, Ramgoolam highlighted the significant depreciation of the Mauritian rupee, which he claimed has lost approximately 50% of its value.

He lamented that while government assistance of Rs 20,000 was promised, its real worth has plummeted to Rs 12,400 due to inflation.

Richard Duval, a representative from the New Democrats, reinforced Ramgoolam’s concerns, asserting that the Alliance for Change cannot accept the current high prices for essentials.

He remarked, “You only hear them talking when you enter supermarkets, pharmacies, and see the rising prices.”

As a priority, Ramgoolam stated that the alliance aims to reduce prices of essential goods, including milk, and curb the depreciation of the local currency.

The Kistnen Case

A photo of the late Soopramanien Kistnen was displayed prominently in the crowd.

Ramgoolam revealed that Kistnen had previously met with him and indicated that Kistnen had a sensitive document in his vehicle’s trunk, warning him of the risks of keeping it there.

“I never thought they would take his life. I guarantee you that if we come to power, we will find out who killed Kistnen,” he promised.

Simla Kistnen, the widow of the deceased, attended the meeting, where Babita Thanoo, a candidate for the Alliance in constituency 8, criticized the government for dishonoring Kistnen’s memory, questioning:

“What have they done to the wife of Kistnen? Have they crushed her dignity and pride? We stand with you, Mrs. Kistnen.”

Critique of Police Authority

During the meeting, Paul Bérenger, leader of the Mouvement Militant Mauricien (MMM), did not hold back in addressing the so-called ‘Missie Moustass leaks.’

He challenged the police commissioner to swear an affidavit in Supreme Court to deny that the voice in leaked phone calls was his, asking rhetorically, “Is he saying that? Are we deaf?”

Anil Baichoo joined the conversation, straightforwardly labeling the police chief as a disgrace to the nation.

Avinash Ramtohul, another alliance candidate, stated that the current government has demonized artificial intelligence (AI), missing an opportunity for technological advancement that could foster development and job creation for youth.

“We have let this slip away. Once in power, our government will restore value to technology,” he asserted.

Chetan Baboolall, also a candidate from constituency 10, quoted George Orwell, remarking, “Big Brother is watching.”

He noted, “In Mauritius, it feels like Big Chacha is watching. He can’t seem to notice the rot in our bananas.”

He urged Vikram Hurdoyal to explain the reasons behind his dismissal, asking, “Why did you resign? Come and tell us.”

"56 Years After Independence, We Must Fight for Our Freedom Again"

Bérenger dismissed the electoral manifesto of the Alliance Lepep as worthless, labeling it a sign of desperation. “Where is Sawnynaden? Wasn’t he the campaign manager?” he questioned.

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