Hunger Strike: Kissoondoyal Fights to Save 60-Year Pension

Former MMM member Dave Kissoondoyal entered his third day of hunger strike on 7th July. He is staying at his home in Union-Park to protest the government’s pension reform plans. Dave Kissoondoyal: “I’m doing this for the whole population”

The reform aiming to gradually raise the retirement age from 60 to 65 years.

Kissoondoyal said he was motivated by the lack of widespread support during recent protests in Port-Louis and Rose-Hill.

“ There was quality, but not enough people,” he said. “If this continues, the government won’t change its stance.”

Feeling that action was needed, he decided to start his own protest to raise awareness and energize the movement.

“After leaving Rose-Hill, I spoke with my wife. She warned my children, who asked me to reconsider. But I knew I would go through with it. I posted a message on Facebook to apologize, but my decision was made. Patriotism called me to act.”

Kissoondoyal has launched a new movement called “Stop pas tous nou pension” meaning (Stop, Do not touch our pensions).

He believed the reform undermines a key part of the social safety net. “Universal pensions are a right. Many manual workers are worn out by age 60. We shouldn’t ask them to work five more years.”

He also criticized the government’s proposed Income Support scheme, calling it a step backward. “It’s not even a pension anymore. It feels like we’re being punished.”

Since starting his hunger strike, Kissoondoyal has received widespread support. People have sent messages online and visited him, including activists from various political parties.

“This issue affects everyone, regardless of political colors.”

He is planning to continue his protest and hopes his actions will prompt the government to reconsider its position. “I’m doing this for the entire population,” he said.

Source: l’Express