The Electoral Commissioner’s Office announced the results on Tuesday, solidifying Ramgoolam's win and ensuring him a fourth term in office.
This victory for Ramgoolam, who leads the Alliance of Change coalition, signals a major shift in Mauritian politics and sets the stage for a fresh era under his leadership.
Speaking with Channel Africa, Journalist and Director at Media Expertise, Jean-Luc Mootoosamy expressed surprise at the scale of Ramgoolam's win.
"These elections were quite special, particularly after the social media ban on November 1st, which lasted for 24 hours," he said.
Mootoosamy noted that while many anticipated an opposition victory, the substantial margin caught both analysts and journalists off guard. Voter turnout was also remarkably high, around 80%, indicating significant public engagement and a desire for political change.
The scale of Ramgoolam’s victory suggests a dual motivation among voters: a desire to support his platform and to remove the outgoing government, led by the Alliance of the People.
According to Mootoosamy, public frustration with institutional inefficiencies under the former administration drove voters to the polls in record numbers.
Despite infrastructure improvements, including Mauritius' tramway system, express roads, and a thriving tourism industry, concerns over governance, law and order, and a perceived lack of accountability marred the previous government’s reputation.
This dynamic recalls a similar sentiment from 2014 when voters ousted Ramgoolam, citing similar frustrations. Now, in a reversal, he has capitalised on this sentiment to secure a decisive comeback.
Jean-Luc Mootoosamy remarked that Ramgoolam’s re-election, despite his ten-year absence from parliament, signals a renewed trust from Mauritians in his leadership capabilities.
However, he cautioned that voters have sent a clear message of accountability, suggesting that Ramgoolam’s return comes with high expectations.
“The Mauritian people will be watching closely,” he said, “to ensure that this government upholds the principles of transparency and addresses issues in the institutional framework.”
At 77, Ramgoolam, a member of a prominent Mauritian political family, has a legacy intertwined with the nation’s history. His father, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, is remembered as the “father of the nation,” leading Mauritius to independence and laying the foundation for its modern development.
Despite his age and recent health struggles, including a severe bout with COVID-19, Ramgoolam campaigned vigorously, engaging in rallies and door-to-door meetings.
His resilience reportedly impressed both supporters and opponents alike, dispelling doubts about his physical capacity to lead a vigorous political campaign.
Mootoosamy hinted that Ramgoolam’s return may be motivated by a desire to address past grievances. Over the past decade, he faced various legal challenges, and some speculate that he may seek retribution against those who posed obstacles to his return.
However, Mootoosamy expressed hope that Ramgoolam would prioritise addressing the critical issues facing Mauritius today over any personal vendettas.
Mauritius now awaits Ramgoolam’s cabinet appointments, expected to be announced shortly. As he assumes leadership, Ramgoolam faces the task of addressing institutional challenges and restoring confidence in government structures.
According to Mootoosamy, the campaign was an extraordinary one, a reflection of a unique political moment for Mauritius.
--ChannelAfrica--
