The opposition Alliance of Change in Mauritius has claimed a sweeping victory in Sunday’s parliamentary election, securing all 60 contested seats on the main island. Opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam, 77, hailed the outcome as a triumph of “the power of the people.”
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, 62, acknowledged the defeat of his Lepep alliance, describing it as a “huge loss.” Known for its stable democracy, Mauritius faced an unusual twist this election season with a phone-tapping scandal that revealed recorded conversations of public figures online. In response, the government attempted a social media ban until after the vote, though backlash led to a reversal within 24 hours.
Ramgoolam, a former doctor who previously served as prime minister from 2005 to 2014, now looks set to return to office for a third term. Addressing supporters, he expressed optimism, saying, “The court of the people has delivered its verdict, and a new Mauritius awakes.”
Supporters of the opposition celebrated with street dances, vuvuzelas, and fireworks, waving the Mauritian flag in a show of unity and joy. Many, like Ibrahim, an Alliance for Change voter, attributed the ruling party’s defeat to “growing public dissatisfaction,” fueled by rising living costs and concerns over governance and corruption.
Throughout the campaign, both parties promised reforms to improve life for Mauritians, with Ramgoolam vowing to raise pensions, provide free transportation and internet, and lower fuel prices.
Arvin Boolell, a former foreign minister and member of the opposition coalition, called the outcome a “victory of the people.” Voter turnout reached around 80%, with citizens electing lawmakers for the 62 parliamentary seats. An additional eight “best loser” seats will be allocated to ensure fair ethnic representation.
The election follows a historic agreement in which the UK ceded sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a significant step in the country’s foreign relations.
