The Independence of Mauritius: Our Country, As 1 People as 1 Nation

12th March 1968 is etched in our history as the day our country regained its Independence. Now, 57 years later, in the aftermath of the elections on 10th November 2024, we are left to ponder: can we genuinely anticipate the onset of a new chapter, one that could eclipse the significance of our Republic’s establishment on 12th March 1992?

Peace, Justice, and Liberty

In stark contrast to 1968 or even 1992, today’s landscape reveals a profound sense of national unity that transcends our varied social classes.

This sentiment is especially vibrant among our youth, who proudly identify as “Mauritians.”

It is true that the landmark 60-0 victory achieved on 10th November represented not just an endorsement of the current governing alliance but also a clear rejection of the former regime.

However, Moustass’s revelations during the recent electoral period prompted a significant silent majority to articulate what can unite an entire nation.

Together, we are bound by a shared vision, a set of values, and a collective will, all beautifully captured within the lines of our national anthem.

Jean George Prosper’s words resonate deeply, and credit is also due to the committee that chose them, transforming these lines into one of the most stirring anthems in existence.

The Motherland is our collective bond; who among us can remain untouched by the “sweet,” “beauty,” and “fragrance” of our beloved island?

The aspiration for one people and one nation is fostered each day through our steadfast belief in peace, justice, and liberty as the foundational pillars of our coexistence.

“Beloved God” is invoked in our anthem—this echoes a deep-seated belief in a higher power that is evident throughout our society.

This belief does not contradict our commitment to a secular democratic state, as affirmed by our Constitution.

Sovereignty

Moving beyond partisan divides, where unity has triumphed over attempted communal fragmentation in the last elections, we now witness a growing attachment to our sovereignty that is being expressed more openly.

Although the fight for the Chagos Islands is not new, recent legal and diplomatic developments have ignited a renewed sense of pride in our identity as Mauritians amidst a global landscape marked by unrest.

Isn’t it noteworthy that the term “lease” was referenced during a press conference at the White House involving Trump and Starmer, highlighting our quest for sovereignty over Chagos?

Additionally, as Africans, we find pride—without succumbing to arrogance—in our progressive journey towards the end of colonial influence across the continent, at least in theory.

Yet, we must not overlook the day-to-day challenges faced by many of our citizens, intensified by the difficult economic circumstances following the elections.

As a result, numerous compatriots remain unaware or indifferent to the significance of reclaiming Chagos.

This has made it all too easy for some, including politicians, to be seduced by the allure of a few billion rupees in rent for Diego Garcia.

Nevertheless, the Chagos cause continues to hold the potential to unify the Mauritian populace.

It is crucial to consider the exciting possibilities of sustainable oceanic development within our vast exclusive economic zone of over 2.3 million square kilometres, especially as we strive to establish a real oceanic state that encompasses a marine area significantly larger than our terrestrial land.

While the path ahead may be fraught with difficulties, particularly with Trump’s audacious offer of a 140-year lease over part of our sovereignty, do we have any alternative but to resist?

Even nations like those in Europe, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other allies of the United States have arrived at this understanding…

Star and Key

The ongoing struggle for our sovereignty may well be the adhesive we need to build not just the nation of tomorrow but to emerge as the true Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.

The upcoming visits from Modi and Macron should serve as valuable opportunities for the world to witness that Mauritius can become one of the best places to live, even amidst a planet filled with crises and uncertainties.

Perhaps we will even play host to a British Prime Minister—an unprecedented event in our history.

Cynics may point to the pervasive drug crisis, the devastating drought, and a myriad of other troubles that plague our society.

While their concerns are valid, is there not also a determination among us to foster positive change in our current realities?

Many young people venture abroad, believing the grass is greener elsewhere, yet there are equally those who choose to stay, convinced that, through divine grace, their destinies lie within their grasp.

Just a few years after gaining Independence, and throughout various chapters of our history since the departure of the Dutch—who bestowed our island with its name—Mauritius has continually demonstrated an incredible capacity for reinvention.

Together, nothing is insurmountable if we unite, “lamin dan lamin,” by capitalising on our strengths, our achievements, and the blessings God has granted us—from our warm Mauritian smiles to our resourceful nature and the stunning beauty of our islands.

With the unprecedented 60-0 victory, while acknowledging and respecting those who did not seek change, we find ourselves with a unique opportunity to initiate the construction of a new Republic.

The proposed constitutional amendments and other reforms prior to the elections received a clear endorsement from the public, yet we must strive to push further for genuine transformation of our institutions.

In accordance with democratic principles, engaging all stakeholders in a comprehensive process is essential to transition our nation firmly into the second half of this millennium.

Source: Defi Media