Mauritius stands on the cusp of a decisive moment as it approaches its general elections on November 10. Traditionally known for its democratic ethos, the island nation has long enjoyed a reputation as a stable and free society.
Yet this year’s elections bring to light complex challenges that may redefine its democratic identity, with the potential to influence not only the direction of the nation but also the integrity of its democratic standing in the region and beyond.
Domestic and international observers will scrutinise this election cycle closely, weighing its implications for governance, economic strategy, climate action, and, critically, human rights challenges and freedoms.
The 2024 elections will likely see fierce competition among major political forces, including the Mauritius Labour Party (MLP), Mouvement Socialiste Militant (MSM), and Mouvement Militant Mauricien (MMM). Alongside these established parties, emerging alliances and independent candidates are broadening the political arena, potentially swaying coalition formations and the political landscape post-election.
This heightened diversity of political voices offers Mauritians more choice, yet also places a greater emphasis on transparency, accountability, and the political will to address public concerns effectively.
Mauritius, known for its upper-middle-income economy, faces mounting challenges that require robust economic policies. Economic resilience remains a core issue. With a fragile tourism industry, rising inflation, and pressing demands for job creation, Mauritius needs leadership committed to navigating these challenges with robust, inclusive policies.
Each party’s stance on economic recovery, inflation control, and job creation will be under the microscope, particularly given the global economic uncertainties that have intensified since the pandemic. Voters are likely to favour candidates with a clear plan for sustaining and growing the economy, balancing development with policies aimed at minimising inequalities and promoting social welfare.
As religion remains intertwined with societal values, issues such as minority rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, and free expression can become focal points of contention, where parties’ stances may reflect broader cultural currents.
Environmental sustainability has evolved into a central electoral theme, reflecting Mauritius’s vulnerability to climate change and environmental degradation. Rising sea levels, coral reef erosion, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are not just distant threats; they are current realities for the island.
Parties must address these existential challenges, which include commitments to renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and coastal protections, to resonate with the increasingly climate-conscious electorate. Young voters, in particular, will be drawn to climate-forward policies that safeguard their future on the island.
Mauritius’s religious diversity is both a strength and a complex element within the political discourse. Political parties often engage with religious communities to consolidate support, a practice that requires balance to avoid deepening sectarian divides or undermining rights-based reforms.
As religion remains intertwined with societal values, issues such as minority rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, and free expression can become focal points of contention, where parties’ stances may reflect broader cultural currents. To maintain democratic inclusivity, it is essential that political actors champion policies that respect religious identities while upholding principles of equality and secular governance.
A critical issue casting a shadow over this electoral period is the recent internet shutdown targeting social media platforms, a first in Mauritius’s democratic history. This action, unprecedented in a nation known for its freedoms, raises alarming questions about the government’s commitment to transparency, freedom of expression, and access to information. The restriction has placed Mauritius in an increasingly concerning group of countries where governments restrict digital access during politically sensitive periods.
With this deliberate restriction of access to social media ahead of a national election, Mauritius joins a growing list of countries that have used internet blackouts to control the information landscape during politically sensitive times. Election-related internet shutdowns can have far-reaching implications. Limiting access to information and restricting communication can hinder voters, journalists, opposition parties, and election observers from obtaining and sharing essential information. The blackout ultimately undermines citizens’ rights to make informed decisions, access polling resources, and actively engage in shaping their country’s future.
Internet shutdowns are increasingly recognised as a violation of fundamental human rights. Mauritius’ constitution guarantees freedom of expression and information as essential rights under Sections 12 and 13, aligning with international instruments including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR). These frameworks underscore the importance of unfettered internet access, especially during critical democratic moments such as elections. The ACHPR, in its Resolution 580 of 2024, emphasised the role of internet connectivity in realising free, fair, and credible elections.
It noted that 21 African countries, including Mauritius, are holding elections this year. Telecommunication companies are also responsible for protecting human rights, particularly when governmental directives threaten to infringe on these rights. According to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, telecom companies are encouraged to undertake due diligence to mitigate rights-violating practices. Mauritius’ deviation from this guidance affects voter rights and risks damaging its standing in regional and global democratic rankings.
For democracy to thrive in Mauritius, access to information must remain open, reinforcing the country’s commitment to upholding political freedoms and allowing its citizens to engage meaningfully in shaping their future. Mauritius has long been considered a beacon of democracy and civil liberties, achieving a score of 85 on the Freedom House 2024 Freedom Index, placing it among the ‘free’ nations globally.
Its robust political rights framework has historically allowed for peaceful power transfers, while its multiparty system supports a dynamic political landscape. However, entrenched political families and the ongoing dominance of the ruling Militant Socialist Movement raise concerns about the fairness of the political process.
Mauritius’s path through the 2024 elections stands as both a test and an opportunity. The nation must demonstrate a steadfast commitment to human rights, inclusivity, and open information access, which have long been cornerstones of its democratic identity. Protecting these values is paramount not only for this election but for the future of Mauritius’s democratic fabric.
For a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive society, Mauritius must ensure that the freedoms of all its citizens are protected, fostering a political climate that reflects its democratic aspirations. As citizens head to the polls, they must consider the stakes: voting for leaders who will uphold the values of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability and continue the legacy of democratic resilience that has defined Mauritius in the past.
Lakshita Kanhiya is an advocate, academic, and activist from Mauritius specialising in human rights, governance, climate justice, and the intersection of religion and sexuality.
Tendai Mbanje is a project officer in the Expression, Information and Digital Rights Unit at the Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria.
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