Pravind Jugnauth sworn in as Mauritius PM

The incumbent Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Jugnauth was sworn in for five-year term after elections in which his coalition consolidated its grip on parliament. His swearing-in took place at the residence of President Barlen Vyapoory.

Key Highlights

The 57 year old Jugnauth took the helm of one of Africa’s wealthiest countries without going through a vote when his father stepped down in 2017. The decisive victory of his centre-right Morisian Alliance in the 7 November elections has now strengthened his legitimacy.

PM Pravind Jugnauth’s proposed new cabinet includes 23 members includes three women. It includes newcomer Kalpana Koonjoo-Shah, who will take over the gender equality Ministry.

The Morisian Alliance claimed 42 of 70 seats in parliament, defeating centre-left National Alliance of Navin Ramgoolam, which secured 17 seats, and Mauritian Militant Movement of Paul Berenger, which garnered nine seats.

NOTE: Since attaining independence from Britain in 1968, Indian Ocean island nation of Mauritius has become one of most stable democracies in Africa. Mauritius, situated roughly 1,800 kilometres (1,100 miles) off the eastern coast of Africa, has evolved from a poor, agriculture-based economy to a relatively wealthy financial services hub and tourist beacon.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2019