Mauritius election sees Jugnauth, Ramgoolam claim win

Mauritius held parliamentary elections with results expected, as incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and opposition leader Navin Ramgoolam both claimed victory. The election comes amid concerns over the cost of living crisis, despite projected 6.5% economic growth this year.

The contest featured 68 parties and five political alliances competing for 62 parliamentary seats, with the majority winner securing the prime minister's position. Jugnauth's Alliance Lepep coalition campaigned on promises to raise minimum wages, increase pensions, and reduce VAT on essential goods, partly funded by payments from the UK's recent Chagos Islands agreement. The opposition Alliance du Changement, led by Ramgoolam, pledged similar pension increases plus free transport and internet services.

The election was marked by controversy when Jugnauth's government briefly banned social media platforms citing national security concerns, drawing criticism from opposition parties. This action raised concerns about erosion of civil liberties in the traditionally stable democracy.

Both Jugnauth, 62, and Ramgoolam, 77, represent political dynasties that have dominated Mauritian politics since independence in 1968. A new bloc, Linion Reform alliance, campaigned against both established leaders with an anti-corruption message.

The majority-Hindu nation has maintained remarkable stability and growth since independence, with tourism, financial services, and textile manufacturing driving its economy. The recent Chagos Islands agreement with Britain was considered a major diplomatic victory, though concerns exist about its future under president-elect Trump's administration regarding the US military presence at Diego Garcia.

Voter turnout among the one million registered voters was expected to reach 80%, with international observers monitoring the process.