Pritivirajsing Roopun elected as new President of Mauritius by parliament

The National Assembly of Republic of Mauritius has unanimously elected Prithvirajsing Roopun, as new President of the island nation, a largely ceremonial post. He was former arts and culture minister of country. The motion for his election as new President was presented by Prime Minister, Home Affairs and External Communications, Minister of Defence, Minister for Rodrigues, Outer Islands and Territorial Integrity.

In Mauritius, Prime Minister is head of government and holds most political power while president is head of state but has no executive role and is considered guardian of constitution.

Key Highlights

The Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Kumar Jugnauth also presented motion for election of Marie Cyril Eddy Boissezon, as new Vice-President of the island nation. The swearing-in ceremony of President and Vice-President of Republic was held at the State House, Le Réduit.

Prithvirajsing Roopun, succeeded Ameenah Gurib-Fakim who resigned in March 2018 after being embroiled in a scandal over her use of a credit card to buy luxury personal items, however, he denied wrongdoing. In November 2019, Mauritius held elections in which incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth won a new five-year term.

Prithvirajsing Roopun (62): He is a lawyer who was first elected to National Assembly in 2000 and has been minister of arts and culture, social integration and regional administration. Since attaining independence from Britain in 1968, Mauritius has become one of most stable democracies in Africa.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2019