100 Days in Power: The Change Alliance Finding the Rhythm

In the wake of their first 100 days in governance, the Change Alliance, headed by Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam and Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger, stands at a critical juncture. The weight of an inherited complex situation presses down on them, demanding both strategic acumen and a steady hand in the face of daunting economic challenges. The promise of renewal lies in their hands, but the path ahead is fraught with obstacles.

Since assuming office, the Alliance has grappled with an economy described as being in a state of “unprecedented precariousness”—a stark assessment laid bare by Ramgoolam during his address to the National Assembly on 10 December 2024.

He cited an alarming level of public debt and fundamental macroeconomic imbalances, calling it shocking how the previous government had squandered public finances.

“The nation will be appalled to discover how the previous administration mismanaged our resources,” he declared.

His administration is determined to restore debt to sustainable levels while safeguarding the future of younger generations.

In an effort to lay the foundations for a new administration, Ramgoolam has expressed the need to re-establish trust among key societal players—government, trade unions, the private sector, and civil society.

He believes that dialogue, weakened during the last term, must be rekindled to facilitate harmonious development.

In a bold move towards transparency and accountability, President Dharam Gokhool presented the government programme for 2025-29, titled “A Bridge to the Future,” to the National Assembly on 24 January.

This roadmap pledged to restore democracy and implement constitutional and electoral reforms.

“Rebuilding our democracy and ensuring good governance is our foremost mission,” he asserted.

Significant institutional changes are on the horizon, including the revision of the National Assembly’s Standing Orders and a commitment to bolstering the independence of public institutions.

The administration is planning holistic economic restructuring, highlighted by the revival of the Ministry of Economic Planning with a mandate to craft a socio-economic recovery plan.

The government’s strategy for revitalising investment is resting on five pillars aimed at broadening and diversifying the investment landscape while optimising the nation’s productive capacities.

They are also aiming to foster innovation and competitiveness through a dedicated research and development framework, while ensuring institutional strength for improved governance and administration.

Strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals is envisioned to secure the stability required for sustainable growth.

However, despite the ambitious aspirations, only one piece of legislation has been passed:

The Financial Crimes Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2025, approved on 7 February, reinstating certain powers to the Director of Public Prosecutions and effectively restoring judicial independence in the fight against corruption.

Three months into their tenure, the government continues to navigate the crucial task of appointing leaders to key public institutions.

Notably, a couple of diplomatic appointments have been finalised, with Milan Meetarbhan representing Mauritius at the United Nations and Jasmine Toulouse appointed as a permanent delegate to UNESCO.

The government is actively working to fill remaining vacancies, with many appointments expected in the coming weeks.

Among the pressing issues addressed is education reform, with the reintroduction of a three-credit requirement for admission to Grade 12, directly impacting future candidates for the Higher School Certificate.

This change marked the beginning of broader educational reforms, although challenges loom large.

In the face of environmental urgency, the administration has unveiled initiatives aimed at sustainable resource management, prioritising ecological preservation and reducing the island’s carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the health sector is a crucial facet of their agenda, with plans to upgrade public infrastructure to ensure quality care for all citizens.

Yet, pressing challenges linger, including outdated equipment and staff shortages.

Amidst these efforts, the government has taken steps to alleviate the cost of living, introducing a reduction of Rs 5 per litre for both petrol and diesel starting 13 December 2024.

In sports, the Mauritius Turf Club has been reinstated as the sole organiser of horse racing, ending the contentious management of People’s Turf.

As the curtain fell on the first 100 days, the Change Alliance seeks to distance itself from its predecessors’ legacy.

While initiatives have commenced, many institutions remain in transition, and the full implementation of comprehensive reforms poses a significant challenge.

The government is now under scrutiny, tasked with delivering on its promises and etching a lasting legacy amidst the myriad economic and social trials ahead.

Source: Defi Media