PM Navin Ramgoolam Proclaims “Changes Have Begun”

In a significant reshuffling following recent elections, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam announced a series of changes during his first press conference after taking office. He expressed gratitude to the Mauritian people for their unprecedented engagement with elected officials, stating, “Mauritians feel liberated. We have succeeded in uniting our nation as one.”

Among the notable changes is the appointment of a temporary police commissioner.

This decision followed the forced resignation of Anil Kumar Dip, who faced controversies regarding his conduct in office.

The new interim commissioner will be Ravine Sooroojebally, the former Deputy Commissioner of Police.

Suresh Seebaluck, who previously served as Chief of Staff and head of the Civil Service, is returning to the Prime Minister’s Office to assist in the cabinet.

Ramgoolam has also called for the resignation of Navin Beekarry from the Financial Crimes Commission, asserting that “he knows what he needs to do.”

The Prime Minister noted that several political nominees have already resigned, and he hopes those who haven’t will do so soon.

Reflecting on the election process, Ramgoolam asserted that his coalition, known as the Alliance du Changement, ran a flawless campaign, contrasting it with the Alliance Lepep, which struggled with internal decision-making.

“I do not want Mauritians to experience the nightmares of the past,” he emphasized.

One of his administration’s immediate actions will be the cessation of phone tapping, allowing citizens to use their phones freely.

“We must honor our commitments to the people,” he insisted.

In addition, Ramgoolam expressed concern over the situation at the Mare-Chicose waste disposal site, highlighting the toxic gases emitted from the location that are affecting residents’ ability to breathe.

He criticized the previous government’s mismanagement of this issue.

The Prime Minister also invited Mauritian families to a gratitude gathering in Port-Louis on Sunday morning, set to begin at 9 AM, featuring local artists and few speakers.

Paul Bérenger: “We Will Keep Our Promises”

Paul Bérenger, another prominent political figure, thanked the public, calling Sunday’s gathering a family celebration featuring artists who contributed to the campaign.

He acknowledged the contributions of electoral officials and police officers during the elections, promising that the government will reward those who served diligently.

Bérenger reaffirmed Ramgoolam’s commitment to forming a new government and convening Parliament soon.

The former leader emphasized that it is the Prime Minister’s prerogative to select his ministerial team and assured that all campaign commitments would be upheld.

Shakeel Mohamed: “A Historic Victory”

Shakeel Mohamed hailed the electoral outcome as “huge and historic.”

He noted the significance of the Mauritian flag being prominently displayed during celebrations, symbolizing a collective desire for unity and rejection of communalism.

“We have work to do in this spirit,” he stressed.

Richard Duval: “A Lesson to the Totalitarian Regime”

Richard Duval declared that the Mauritian people have, with a single stroke, sent a powerful message to the former government, which he described as totalitarian.

“They thought they could win 60-0, but they underestimated us,” he remarked, thanking those who dedicated themselves to ensuring the elections proceeded smoothly.

Duval expressed confidence in the new parliamentary team’s ability to fulfill their promises to the populace.

Ashok Subron: “Mauricianism as a Defense Against Dictatorship”

Ashok Subron remarked on the resilience of the Mauritian people, asserting that the recent elections demonstrated their ability to bring about change.

He praised the emergence of “mauricianism” as a strong counter to dictatorial governance.

“The population has clearly signaled their desire for freedom and democracy,” he stated, urging that this must be respected.

In concluding remarks, Subron thanked the youth for their vital participation in the electoral process and reiterated the commitment to translating campaign promises into reality.

Responding to media inquiries, Prime Minister Ramgoolam confirmed that the cabinet’s composition will be revealed soon, including 24 ministers.

He disclosed that Gavin Glover has been approached to become Attorney General but noted that he will not be able to commence his duties until the end of the month due to prior commitments.

Ramgoolam also indicated that a full inquiry into phone tapping activities would take place and advised political appointees to resign promptly while ensuring there would be no vendetta politics, although accountability is necessary for those who misused their power.

Source: Le Mauricien