Opposition Leader Navin Ramgoolam Expected to Return as Prime Minister After Alliance of Change Victory
Port Louis, Mauritius – Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has conceded defeat in Mauritius’s parliamentary election, acknowledging that his political alliance, L’Alliance Lepep, is set for a major loss. Jugnauth, who has held office since 2017, wished “good luck to the country” after expressing disappointment in the outcome.
Election Outcome and Expected Leadership Change
Though final results have yet to be confirmed, opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam appears poised to lead the country as prime minister for a third time at the head of his Alliance of Change coalition. Ramgoolam, 77, is a prominent figure in Mauritian politics, having served previously from 1995 to 2000 and from 2005 to 2014. He is the son of Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, who led Mauritius to independence in 1968.
High Voter Turnout and Key Election Issues
Mauritians turned out in large numbers, with an estimated 80 percent participation rate. They cast their votes for 62 parliamentary seats, which will be decided through a first-past-the-post system, with an additional eight seats allocated through the “best loser” system.
Campaign issues were dominated by cost-of-living concerns, despite the nation’s economic growth. Both political camps vowed to address these challenges. However, the campaign was overshadowed by a recent scandal involving leaked wire-tapped phone conversations of politicians, diplomats, and journalists.
A History of Political Stability and Economic Growth
Mauritius, a majority-Hindu nation renowned for its stability, has built a robust economy based on tourism, financial services, and textile manufacturing. Despite strong GDP growth and a per capita income of over $10,000 in 2022, concerns about governance and corruption have emerged in recent years.
Looking Ahead
As the election’s final results are confirmed, Ramgoolam is expected to take office, marking a new chapter for the island nation’s political landscape.