“Let us not jump the gun. No race is won before it is run”
Interview: Kugan Parapen
* ‘unnatural alliances can happen. For example, for many political analysts, the MSM-PMSD alliance is a foregone conclusion’
* ‘The recent political history shows how power abuse occurs when when we elect a government where the majority partner enjoys a more than comfortable majority’
As Mauritius gears up for the upcoming elections, the political scene is vibrant yet uncertain. Kugan Parapen, economist and member of Rezistans ek Alternativ, provides insights into the dynamic landscape, noting a surge in government and opposition activities. However, amidst this flurry, voter sentiment remains undecided and cautious. Jugan Parapen anticipates intense campaigning marked by mudslinging and strategic manoeuvers. He highlights the potential impact of smaller parties and calls for pragmatic engagement to address systemic issues. Overall, he underscores the need for meaningful reforms to strengthen democracy and restore public trust.
Mauritius Times: The political landscape appears dynamic and charged as the next elections approach. There is a noticeable flurry of activity, with all parties refining their strategies and some engaging in alliance discussions. How do you perceive the current state of affairs in the lead-up to the elections?
Kugan Parapen: La marmite est effectivement en ébullition… (The pot is indeed boiling.) On the government side, ministers and other MPs seem to have awoken from years of hibernation and are now intent on (re)discovering their constituencies. Supposed projects are being unveiled on a daily basis and selfies with citizens have become the norm.
On the opposition side, we see a lot of posturing from wanna-be candidates. They are everywhere they think it matters. Weddings, funerals, religious functions, football tournaments and what not. Overall, voters are being seduced. Or should we say lured?
* It’s quite challenging these days to accurately assess the sentiments of a significant section of voters. Many people are either reluctant to voice their opinions or find themselves undecided about which alliance to support. There does not appear to be a clear-cut majority on either side of the spectrum. This is not very reassuring for both the opposition and the governing alliance, is it?
When was the last time the country headed into general elections with an outright favourite? In 2000 maybe. Ever since, there has always been some uncertainty about the outcome of the general election. There are numerous factors which can account for this state of affairs, none more so than the lack of reliable polls in the run up to the election. Read More… Become a Subscriber
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 24 May 2024
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