“60-0: A Vote for Change & Hope for Better Days!”

In a recent interview with Week-End, veteran activists Rama Poonosamy and Dharam Gokhool discussed the significance of the sweeping 60-0 electoral victory by the Alliance du Changement on November 10, 2024, following the pattern of two earlier landmark victories in Mauritius—one by the MMM/PSM alliance in 1982 and another by the Labour party/MMM alliance in 1995. They shared their perspectives on the underlying sentiments that led to these decisive outcomes and the current political atmosphere.

A Historical Perspective on Previous 60-0 Wins

Poonoosamy began by reflecting on the 1982 victory, the first of its kind in global democratic history, where the opposition secured all parliamentary seats.

He stated that this triumph was driven by years of frustration among the population, inspired by the Mouvement Militant Mauricien (MMM) and supported by trade unionists across the nation.

On June 11, 1982, Mauritians expressed their dissatisfaction with the existing regime and their aspirations for a better life.

Similarly, in 1995, Poonoosamy noted that a year-long buildup of dissatisfaction culminated in a significant win for the Labour Party-MMM alliance after their success in a partial election early that year.

Once again, the people voiced their frustrations and hopes for a brighter future.

For the 2024 election, he observed that the atmosphere in Mauritius had become increasingly oppressive amid ongoing scandals under the incumbent government.

The Alliance du Changement, which included the Labour party, MMM, and other parties, emerged as a beacon of hope, symbolizing the liberation of a weary populace.

Once again, citizens rallied behind a cause they believed could usher in a new era.

The Role of Governance and Electoral Strategy

Gokhool highlighted that the reason behind all three 60-0 victories was a collective protest against the various governments in power rather than an outright endorsement of opposition parties.

Each electoral campaign was marked by well-organized efforts that centered on the voters’ concerns.

In 1982, the main issues included high youth unemployment and labor conditions, while in 1995, factors such as communal tensions and governance issues took precedence.

In 2024, the landscape had shifted. Poonoosamy attributed the Alliance du Changement’s victory to a harmonious partnership between leaders Navin Ramgoolam and Paul Bérenger, along with the strategic inclusion of new allies like Rezistans ek Alternativ.

The fresh perspectives brought by younger activists imbued the campaign with enthusiasm and a commitment to change.

Public Sentiment and Sc scandals

Reflecting on the impactful events that led up to the recent elections, Poonoosamy referred to the “Moustass Leaks” scandal, which exposed questionable activities within the government and shaped public opinion against the establishment just days before the polls.

He emphasized how this outcry, coupled with the government’s attempts to suppress freedom of expression by banning social media, sparked outrage, particularly among the youth.

Gokhool echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that for many young people, access to the internet was essential, and the government’s actions were seen as a brazen attack on civil liberties.

Both activists acknowledged the considerable damage inflicted on the administration’s reputation by these events, leading many of its erstwhile supporters to abandon ship.

Ensuring Stability within the Alliance

As the Alliance du Changement embarks on governing, both Poonoosamy and Gokhool stress the importance of unity within the coalition to avoid the pitfalls of previous alliances that suffered from internal conflicts.

Poonoosamy suggested fostering collaboration among ministers and party members, emphasizing the need for maturity and learning from past mistakes.

Gokhool highlighted the necessity of consistent communication and teamwork among coalition partners, urging them to maintain focus on their commitments to the electorate.

Both activists expressed optimism about the durability of the Alliance, provided they remain true to their promises and deliver tangible results for the people.

In conclusion, both Rama Poonoosamy and Dharam Gokhool’s insights shed light on the current political landscape in Mauritius, marked by a profound desire for change and a populace yearning for effective governance.

Source: Le Mauricien