PORT LOUIS, November 10 – Mauritians turned out for parliamentary elections Sunday, with rising costs and economic uncertainty high on voters’ minds. Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, leading the Alliance Lepep coalition, and opposition leaders are all vowing economic relief for the island nation, where many citizens are struggling to keep up with living expenses.
Mauritius, home to 1.3 million people, has long marketed itself as a bridge between Africa and Asia, with revenue coming from offshore finance, tourism, and textiles. This year’s expected economic growth rate of 6.5% is slightly below last year’s 7.0%, and voters report feeling few benefits, fueling frustration over financial pressures.
To address these challenges, Jugnauth’s coalition has promised to raise minimum wages, increase pensions, and reduce value-added tax on essentials. They also plan to allocate funds from a recent agreement with the UK to transfer sovereignty over the Chagos Islands, while the U.S.-UK Diego Garcia military base remains in operation.
“The alliance led by the prime minister is banking on economic prosperity, with promises of financial relief to different segments of the population,” said political analyst Subash Gobine.
The opposition, led by the Alliance du Changement coalition under Navin Ramgoolam, has also pledged pension increases, while proposing free public transportation, internet services, and reduced fuel costs. Other challengers in the Linion Reform alliance, led by Nando Bodha and Roshi Bhadain, plan to alternate as prime ministers if elected.
Voting concluded at 1400 GMT, determining 62 parliamentary seats for the next five years, with 68 parties and five political alliances on the ballot. Election results are expected Monday.
For many, the vote is seen as a chance for economic renewal. Ivan Mootooveeren, a music teacher in Port Louis, voted for the opposition, expressing a desire for a new direction for the country. David Stafford, 36, said younger voters could make a decisive impact, with many seeking fresh ideas for economic growth and job creation.
Whichever coalition wins the most seats will take the prime minister’s post.
