Navin Ramgoolam Appointed as Prime Minister of Mauritius

November 15, 2024

Navin Ramgoolam has returned to power in Mauritius. He was sworn in as Prime Minister for the fourth time on November 13, 2024. This follows an important victory in the recent general elections. His coalition, the Alliance du Changement (ADC), won 60 out of 62 seats in the National Assembly. They secured 62.6% of the votes cast on November 10, 2024.

Election Context

The recent elections marked a dramatic shift in Mauritian politics. Ramgoolam’s ADC coalition achieved a landslide victory. This success reflects public sentiment amidst economic challenges. Outgoing Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth faced criticism for rising living costs and corruption allegations. His government has been in power since 2017.

Ramgoolam’s Political History

Navin Ramgoolam is a seasoned politician. He previously served as Prime Minister from 1995 to 1996, and again from 2000 to 2005, and from 2010 to 2014. His political career spans several decades. He has been instrumental in shaping Mauritius’s economic landscape. His previous terms focused on economic diversification and reducing bureaucracy.

Mauritius has a population of approximately 1.3 million people. The economy is valued at around $10 billion. Despite recent growth rates of 7.0%, challenges remain. The cost of living crisis has impacted many citizens. Economic stability is crucial for maintaining public support.

International Relations

Mauritius maintains strategic international relations. Last month, Jugnauth negotiated an agreement regarding the Chagos Islands. This deal involved ceding the islands while retaining the U.S.-British Diego Garcia air base. Such agreements highlight Mauritius’s geopolitical significance in the Indian Ocean region.

Ramgoolam faces important challenges ahead. Addressing the cost of living crisis is paramount. He must also restore public trust amid corruption allegations. Economic reforms will be essential for sustainable growth. The new government will need to focus on transparency and accountability to regain public confidence.

Important Facts for Exams:
Alliance du Changement (ADC): The ADC is a political coalition in Mauritius. It achieved a historic victory in the 2024 elections. The coalition secured 60 out of 62 seats in the National Assembly.
Chagos Islands: The Chagos Islands are a group of islands in the Indian Ocean. They are a point of contention between Mauritius and the UK. The islands house the strategic Diego Garcia air base.
Diego Garcia: Diego Garcia is an important military base located in the Indian Ocean. It is operated by the United States and the United Kingdom. The base plays important role in regional security and military operations.

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