1st May: Navin Ramgoolam Urges Voting for Municipals, No to Abstention

In a fervent display of political fervour, Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam was greeted to the infectious rhythm of the song “Ale Navin, Ale Navin… To mem nou lerwa” as he took to the stage of the Alliance of Change at Edward VII Square in Rose-Hill. Addressing a gathering of supporters from the Labour Party (PTr), the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), Rezistans ek Alternativ (ReA), and the New Democrats(ND), he spoke passionately for twenty minutes, offering a glimpse into the forthcoming Budget for 2025/2026.

“The nation’s debt has soared to over 90%. Today, every mother, father, youth, and child bears a staggering debt of Rs 530,000,” he lamented.

“But we shall shoulder our responsibilities. A budget is indeed on the horizon. For me, it is not popularity that matters, but our country. Our priority is our nation,” he asserted with conviction.

Ramgoolam emphasised the monumental task ahead, declaring that everything must be rebuilt, as he accused the previous administration of having “devastated this country for a decade.”

He reminded the audience that it has now been 169 days since the Alliance of Change assumed power, and he took the opportunity to highlight several measures already implemented:

• A financial audit of the nation completed in under 26 days.
• Renegotiation of the agreement for the return of Chagos sovereignty to Mauritius.
• The provision of a 14th month’s salary to over 90% of workers earning less than Rs 50,000.
• A reduction in fuel prices, “even if we could not lower them as much as we had hoped.”
• Granting independence to the Bank of Mauritius, the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
• Restoring the dignity of Parliament.
• The reintroduction of three credits for access to Lower VI.
• Strengthening diplomatic ties.

In light of the torrential rains that lashed the island on Wednesday, 30th April, Ramgoolam acknowledged that “there was confusion.”

He explained that the Vacoas meteorological service had informed him at approximately 4:15 AM of the impending heavy rains.

By 5 AM, the decision was made to close schools, yet it was not until 8 AM that an official warning of torrential rains was issued.

He indicated that a review of the law would be considered, following consultations, to ensure the protection of all workers against the risks posed by such weather events.

“A worker, whether in the public or private sector, remains a worker. Their rights must be respected,” he asserted.

Dr Navin Ramgoolam concluded his address with a rallying cry to the citizens ahead of the municipal elections scheduled for Sunday, 4th May.

“No election is won in advance. You must go out and vote. Our greatest enemy is abstention. Trust us. We will restore this country. One country, one nation, one destiny,” he proclaimed, igniting a sense of urgency and hope among his supporters.

Sources: Defi Media