Sun Nov 10 03:23:41 UTC 2024: ## Mauritius Holds Election Amid Cost-of-Living Crisis
**PORT LOUIS, MAURITIUS** – Mauritius held parliamentary elections on Sunday, November 10, 2024, with the incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth facing stiff competition from opposition parties all promising to tackle the rising cost of living.
The Indian Ocean archipelago, known for its thriving offshore financial sector, tourism, and textiles, is experiencing economic growth but many residents are struggling to make ends meet.
Jugnauth’s Alliance Lepep coalition has pledged to raise minimum wages, increase pensions, and reduce taxes on basic goods. They aim to utilize funds received from the UK as part of an agreement to cede the Chagos Islands while retaining the Diego Garcia air base. Mauritius also receives aid from China.
The opposition, led by the Alliance du Changement coalition and the Linion Reform alliance, is also promising increased pensions, free transport and internet services, and lower fuel prices. They emphasize the need for economic innovation and job opportunities to address the concerns of young voters.
Over a million voters were expected to choose 62 lawmakers for the next five years from a list of 68 parties and five alliances. The election saw social media platforms blocked until a day after the results were expected due to concerns about leaked conversations between public figures. The ban was later lifted following criticism from opposition parties.
The election results are expected to determine the fate of Jugnauth’s government and the direction Mauritius will take in addressing the challenges of economic growth and the cost-of-living crisis.
First Piper 