Mauritius voters headed to the polls on Sunday in a tightly contested parliamentary election, with Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth’s Alliance Lepep coalition promising economic relief measures. Jugnauth and his main opponents have made bold pledges to address the rising cost of living impacting the Indian Ocean nation.
Mauritius, home to around 1.3 million people, thrives as a financial hub connecting Africa and Asia, generating income from tourism, textiles, and a growing offshore financial sector. The island nation expects 6.5% economic growth this year, slightly lower than last year’s 7.0%. However, many residents feel this growth has not eased their economic struggles.
Jugnauth’s coalition is appealing to voters with promises to raise minimum wages, increase pensions, and cut taxes on essential goods. Additionally, they propose using funds from a recent UK agreement on the Chagos Islands to finance these initiatives.
Political analyst Subash Gobine noted, “The alliance led by the prime minister is selling the economic prosperity card, with promises of more money to different segments of the population.”
Meanwhile, the opposition, led by Navin Ramgoolam’s Alliance du Changement and the Linion Reform alliance, has promised similar economic reforms. They propose increased pensions, free public transportation and internet services, and a reduction in fuel prices.
Voting, which ended at 1400 GMT, will determine representatives for 62 parliamentary seats from a field of 68 parties and five political alliances. The winning coalition will also secure the prime minister’s position.
Results are expected on Monday. Voters expressed varied opinions, with music instructor Ivan Mootooveeren, 41, advocating for change, while David Stafford, 36, highlighted a need for economic innovation.
Earlier in November, Jugnauth’s government briefly restricted social media, citing national security, though the ban was lifted after criticism from opposition parties.