GIS – 13 March 2025: With perseverance and unity, Mauritius will overcome its challenges and move towards a stronger future. A capable and dedicated team stands ready to restore democracy, economic stability, and national unity while ensuring transparency and keeping every citizen informed about Government’s actions.
This was the fore of the message delivered yesterday by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, on the occasion of the country’s 57th Independence Day and 33rd Republic Day.
Prime Minister Ramgoolam reflected on Mauritius’ independence in 1968, highlighting its initial struggles with limited resources and high unemployment. Despite bleak economic predictions, the vision and sacrifices of past leaders enabled the nation to overcome hurdles and forge its own path, he said.
On that score, Dr Ramgoolam pointed out that the newly elected Government is dedicated to rebuilding the nation despite the numerous challenges lying ahead. He stressed the importance of clear priorities and outlined a three-phase work plan, starting with an audit of the economy.
Government, he observed, has already assessed the dire economic situation and taken corrective measures, including reducing fuel prices, stabilising the rupee by restoring the independence of the Bank of Mauritius, and lowering inflation to 2.6% in January 2025.
Other steps include reducing the prices of canned goods and medicine, reinstating three credits for admission to Lower 6 classes, amending the Financial Crimes Commission Act to restore the Director of Public Prosecutions constitutional rights, and reforming voter registration and ballot counting procedures. Government is also actively renegotiating the Chagos deal, asserting Mauritius’ sovereignty over the archipelago, he said.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister affirmed that the rule of law and freedom of speech would be upheld, ensuring citizens can express their views without fear. He also reiterated Government’s commitment to restoring the integrity and neutrality of institutions like the National Assembly and the Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation.
Dr Ramgoolam stressed the need for Mauritius to rebuild its international reputation, particularly in Africa which he qualified as a continent of opportunity, while recalling his recent participation to the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa. He further stated that Government is restoring Mauritius’ role in the Southern African Development Community and strengthening international ties.
According to him, the visit of the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Shri Narendra Modi for the 57th Independence anniversary reaffirms India’s role as a key partner and reflects the strong relationship and support in reviving the economy, modernising public services, and enhancing security.
On that note, the Prime Minister elaborated that Mauritius and India have signed eight agreements aimed at economic recovery, crime prevention, police support, civil service and diplomatic training, and the development of the blue economy.
He also announced that French President Emmanuel Macron will visit Mauritius next month after the Indian Ocean Commission Summit in Madagascar. Emphasising the need to restore Mauritius’ global standing, the Prime Minister pointed out that high-level diplomatic engagements are crucial for economic and developmental progress.
According to Dr Ramgoolam, the upcoming budget, to be presented in a few weeks, will define the country’s new economic direction with focus on responsible financial management. He underlined the need for bold measures to prevent a credit rating downgrade by Moody’s.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the skills and efforts of all Mauritians, including those overseas, expressed his wishes for strength and resilience to those facing hardships, and extended Independence Day greetings to everyone across the mainland, Rodrigues, Agalega, and the diaspora.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the nation’s success, stressing that unity and solidarity are key elements in the process of rebuilding Mauritius. Dr Ramgoolam pledged to update the Mauritian population every hundred days on Government’s progress, including project implementation and overall advancement. This commitment will ensure transparency and reaffirms Government’s promise to the nation, he added.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov