International Women’s Day: PM’s Call to Combat Drug Epidemic Harming Families

In a powerful address to a gathering of women at the Mahatma Gandhi Institute March 9th, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam expressed his steadfast commitment to tackling the devastating drug epidemic that is inflicting severe damage on countless families. His sentiments were echoed by Deputy Prime Minister Paul Bérenger, who took the opportunity to thank the women who played a crucial role in ushering the new government into power during the recent elections.

He reaffirmed the commitment that the Alliance of Change would field more women candidates in the upcoming municipal elections.

Navin Ramgoolam reflected on the harsh realities faced by women globally, asserting that a single day is inadequate to address the myriad discriminations they endure daily.

“Although it is now 2025, certain countries have seen a regression in women’s rights,” he lamented, referencing the ongoing denial of abortion rights and prohibitions on education in specific regions.

While he acknowledged the progress made in Mauritius, he reminded the audience that discrimination, violence, and humiliation against women persist.

The Prime Minister then turned his attention to the dire consequences of drug abuse, which has been catastrophic for families across the nation.

“The situation is dire. We are resolute in our mission to halt the destruction caused by drugs,” he declared.

He highlighted the ongoing reorganisation of the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) led by the Police Commissioner as part of their strategy.

He announced the establishment of the National Drug Policy Monitoring and Coordination Agency, which replaces the neglected Natresa.

Operating under the Prime Minister’s Office and chaired by the determined Sam Lauthan, the agency will play a critical role in addressing the drug crisis in Mauritius. Dr. Soleiman will serve as its director.

In a firm stance on road safety, the Prime Minister indicated that the laws would be strengthened against individuals driving under the influence of drugs and causing accidents.

He pointed out that in some countries, the vehicles belonging to offenders are seized, urging the necessity for education around the dangers of drugs that ensnare young people into a vicious cycle.

Ramgoolam concluded with an unwavering promise to take a hard line against drug lords, recalling how, in 1983, such figures believed they were untouchable.

“This time, we will not see another ‘Franklin’ dictating the law,” he asserted.

On the representation of women within his government, Ramgoolam acknowledged the need for more female candidates, which will naturally lead to a greater number of women in Parliament.

He proudly noted the recent appointments of women in significant roles, including Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra as Speaker of the National Assembly, Stéphanie Anquetil as Chief Whip, Jasmine Toulouse as ambassador to UNESCO, as well as two Ministers and four Junior Ministers.

He also highlighted women’s appointments to the Bank of Mauritius, the Financial Intelligence Unit, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

He called for more commitment from the private sector to elevate women to decision-making positions.

In a heartfelt tribute, Deputy Prime Minister Bérenger paid homage to women and girls around the world, particularly those in Palestine, Ukraine, and the Chagos Islands.

He expressed gratitude to the women whose support helped ensure peaceful elections.

While he acknowledged the lack of sufficient female ministers and Junior Ministers, he praised the significant appointments of women to leadership roles in institutions, including Aumeeruddy-Cziffra, who he stated has restored dignity to Parliament.

He emphasized the importance of presenting as many women as possible for the municipal elections, awaiting genuine electoral reforms to enhance female representation in Parliament.

Bérenger quoted Arianne Navarre-Marie’s assertion that he and Ramgoolam are “both committed feminists,” insisting this carries considerable weight.

He urged women to help ensure the successful implementation of the government’s feminist agenda.

Arianne Navarre-Marie, the Minister for Gender Equality, highlighted the progress made over the years for women in education and employment.

Yet, she cautioned that more effort is essential for women to fully engage in the nation’s economic and political life.

She championed the pursuit of positive masculinity as a pathway to gender equality, advocating that “men and women must advance together for the betterment of the country.”

Junior Minister Anishta Babooram celebrated the formation of the Constitutional Review Commission, which will focus on electoral reform aimed at increasing women’s representation in Parliament.

She noted the long-standing contributions of the Labour Party (PTr) in supporting women’s rights and underscored the commitment of both alliance leaders, Ramgoolam and Bérenger, to advance the cause of women.

The ceremony commenced with a moving documentary produced by Rezistans ek Alternativ, honouring figures such as Anna de Bengal, Anjalay Coopen, and the women of Chagos.

Awards were also given to young women excelling in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as in sports, celebrating their remarkable achievements.

Source: Le Mauricien