Mauritius PM Announces Major Electoral Reforms, No More Ethnic Identity Disclosure

Mauritius Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam has announced that candidates in forthcoming general elections will no longer be required to declare their ethnic identity. This change will be implemented through a permanent amendment to the Constitution.

Additionally, the voter registration process will be updated, allowing vote counting to begin immediately after the polls close.

The Prime Minister made these announcements while discussing the government’s 2025-2029 programme, which was approved by the majority in the National Assembly on Friday. He referred to the efforts of the Rezistans ek Alternativ group, which has campaigned against the use of ethnic identity as a criterion for candidacy.

While a temporary amendment had previously removed the obligation, Ramgoolam stated that a permanent solution is necessary to ensure true democracy.

Ethnic Declaration

“No Mauritian will need to declare their community affiliation to run for election,” he assured.

He also outlined plans to revise voter registration so that citizens turning 18 can register up to a week after the election writ is published. He hopes this will be in place for the next local elections and has confirmed the introduction of new technologies to aid in voter registration.

Mauritius PM Dr Navin Ramgoolam. Photo Credit: L’Express

To enhance the electoral process, Ramgoolam stated that the Electoral Supervisory Commission will be supported to ensure that vote counting can commence on the same evening as the election.

He has already discussed this plan with the electoral commissioner and indicated that a team would be sent for further talks. He believes it is time to abandon the outdated practice of storing ballot boxes before counting.

The Prime Minister also expressed his determination to prevent voter impersonation, stating it is “unacceptable” for one person to vote on behalf of another.

Furthermore, the government aims to introduce an Anti-Defection Law, although its implementation is expected to be challenging. Legislation regarding political party funding will also be part of the upcoming reforms.

Ramgoolam emphasised the need to raise the limits on election spending, saying, “Everyone agrees it is far too low.” Broader discussions, including experts, will be organised to address existing loopholes.

He also highlighted that in 2019, names of voters were removed from electoral lists, stating, “This must stop.” He has proposed stricter procedures to ensure that any voter whose name is deleted is officially notified, allowing them to decide if they wish to be reinstated on the electoral roll.

These proposed changes have been discussed with the electoral commissioner and the Electoral Supervisory Commission, with further consultations to follow. Ramgoolam is committed to ensuring that elections are “free and fair.”

Return To Mauritius

The introduction of electoral reforms that include proportional representation will also aim to enhance women’s representation in Parliament.

Additionally, Ramgoolam affirmed that the government will take a firm stance against drug lords and ensure that police officers have clear and structured career paths. He did not shy away from criticising the former police commissioner, referring to him as “Mr Gel.”

He expressed a wish for young Mauritians who have left the country to return, stating they want to see meritocracy prevail. While he acknowledged inheriting a “disastrous” economic situation from the previous government, he admitted that he does not have a “magic wand” but is confident in his “dream team” to turn the economy around.

Source: L’Express