Alleged Data Manipulation, Statistics Mauritius’ Credibility Questioned

The credibility of Statistics Mauritius has been called into question since 2021 due to allegations of data manipulation. Defi Media’s internal sources within the organization have revealed that the resignation of Gilbert Gnany as Chairman was not a mere coincidence, but rather a result of a “deep disagreement” with the previous administration, particularly with then-Finance Minister Renganaden Padayachy.

Several testimonies indicated that Padayachy allegedly exerted pressure to alter economic data to present a more favorable picture of the country’s economic conditions.

One significant example of this alleged manipulation is the revision of growth figures for 2021.

While realistic estimates suggested an economic growth of around 3.5%, the official figures were adjusted to 4%.

This discrepancy raised serious concerns about the objectivity of reports produced by Statistics Mauritius.

Independent economists and statistical experts have estimated that such adjustments do not stem from genuine economic factors but rather from political motivations aimed at enhancing the presentation of results.

Following these events, the credibility of Statistics Mauritius has been severely undermined, with many analysts noting a direct impact on the quality of economic data available to researchers, economists, and policymakers.

This information is crucial for objectively assessing a country’s economic situation, and any manipulation could have dire consequences for economic and social decision-making.

The critiques directed at how economic data is managed have fueled a growing mistrust towards public institutions responsible for economic analysis. Discussions on data manipulation related to economic growth, inflation, and unemployment have become increasingly frequent.

In a speech delivered in Port-Louis, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam emphasized that the previous government had “deliberately distorted” figures to conceal less favorable economic realities.

The current challenge revolves around how to restore transparency and independence within public institutions, including Statistics Mauritius, so as to regain trust in the economic figures used to shape public policy.

According to numerous Defi Media’s sources, it is vital for the institution to ensure that economic data is calculated objectively and free from political interference in order to re-establish its credibility.

“The appointment of a new leadership team at Statistics Mauritius and the implementation of oversight mechanisms are crucial steps to restoring order in this domain,” these sources asserted.

Efforts to reach out to former Finance Minister Renganaden Padayachy for comment on these allegations have proven unsuccessful, as multiple attempts for a response have gone unanswered.

Source: Defi Media