Remembering Kailash Purryag: A Life of Service
A Personal Tribute
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kailash Purryag.
My connection with Kailash dates back to the early seventies through my cousins in Vacoas. From 1990 onwards, I had the distinct privilege of working closely with him within the Mauritius Labour Party. I am immensely grateful for his invaluable guidance and wisdom during both the good and challenging times of our political journey.
Kailash possessed a wealth of experience, which he generously and unselfishly shared with those around him. I recall his frequent references to the pessimistic economic outlooks for independent Mauritius in the seventies, often quoting Nobel laureate V.S. Naipaul, Professor Richard Titmuss, and Professor James Meade. He also took great pleasure in offering advice on education.
Though we were both very close to the MLP leader, we were unfortunately denied party tickets for the 2005 general elections. Despite this setback, we both chose to remain loyal to the Party.
A respected Attorney-at-law, Kailash’s distinguished career included serving as: Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Minister of Telecommunications, Minister of Health, Minister of External Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister, Speaker of the National Assembly, and President of The Republic.
Throughout his entire political career, Kailash Purryag earned the profound respect of all. He truly embodied the principle of “Seva” – selfless service to the population and the nation – and will be remembered for this unwavering dedication.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Aneeta, Anu, Ritesh, and the Purryag and Sewraj families during this difficult time.
Sarat Lallah
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 27 June 2025
An Appeal
Dear Reader
65 years ago Mauritius Times was founded with a resolve to fight for justice and fairness and the advancement of the public good. It has never deviated from this principle no matter how daunting the challenges and how costly the price it has had to pay at different times of our history.
With print journalism struggling to keep afloat due to falling advertising revenues and the wide availability of free sources of information, it is crucially important for the Mauritius Times to survive and prosper. We can only continue doing it with the support of our readers.
The best way you can support our efforts is to take a subscription or by making a recurring donation through a Standing Order to our non-profit Foundation.
Thank you.
