“There may be delays, but the electorate is watching closely and expects tangible results”
|Interview with Sada Reddi, Historian: Reflections on the New Government and Mauritius’ Future
‘We all want wrongdoers to be held accountable, we all want to see those responsible for Kistnen’s murder brought to justice…’
* ‘ The Bhadain-Valayden and Bodha group could pose a formidable challenge to the Labour Party-MMM, especially if they fail to deliver or build a new, younger leadership’
* ‘For the last 300 years, we have lived peacefully in a plural society…
… it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that this continues in our society today and in the future’
The political landscape in Mauritius took a significant turn in November 2024 with the installation of a new government, following an overwhelming electoral victory. The nation now faces the challenge of transitioning from election promises to tangible actions. To shed light on these developments, we spoke with Sada Reddi, former academic at the University of Mauritius and historian with deep insights into the country’s political evolution and societal dynamics.
In this candid conversation, Sada Reddi offers his perspective on the government’s first steps, the public’s expectations for accountability, and the obstacles it faces in terms of resources and leadership. He also touches on the growing impatience among the electorate, the complexities of governance, and the long-term sustainability of the current political alliance. He also reflects on the broader implications of the election results and the ongoing debates surrounding key national issues such as the Chagos dispute.
Mauritius Times: A new government took office in November 2024, with 24 ministers appointed to lead the country’s affairs. Do you see tangible signs of positive change taking root, or does it remain largely rhetorical?
Sada Reddi: One cannot say that the government’s programme is merely rhetorical. It is based on the electoral manifesto presented before the elections, and most of its measures, as outlined in the Government programme presented by the President of the Republic, have been well thought out and agreed upon consensually by the four parties that constitute the government.
From what I gather from the media, the programme has been well received by the public. As many observers have noted, what matters most is its implementation. The government has already fulfilled some promises regarding salary payments, despite the widely acknowledged challenging conditions.
Moreover, ministers and junior ministers have been actively assessing the situation they inherited and have taken immediate measures to address urgent problems. This demonstrates the determination of the Prime Minister and his government.
* There is, nevertheless, a growing sense of impatience among the public to witness tangible changes and, more importantly, to see those believed to have been involved in wrongdoings — such as fraud, corruption, or even murder — held accountable. While the police and other investigative bodies undoubtedly have a heavy workload, the public understandably seeks assurance that the promise of “rupture” will not remain an empty word, and that justice will be served in a timely
I agree. Everyone is eager to see immediate changes following these historic elections. This impatience is both legitimate and natural, but people also understand that the government must follow due processes, abide by legal principles, and ensure that the rule of law prevails. Additionally, every government must also grapple with bureaucratic challenges. As the Government Programme highlights, the workload ahead is immense, especially given that the resources of the state were not just severely mismanaged but, one could say, outright plundered by the previous regime, affecting almost every major institution.
A simple example is the Rs 200 million budget deficit at the University of Mauritius, a situation mirrored across many debt-ridden institutions. We all want wrongdoers to be held accountable, we all want to see those responsible for Kistnen’s murder brought to justice, and we seek greater clarity on cases of alleged suicides. However, thorough investigations must be completed, and admissible evidence must be gathered before any legal action can be taken. Unfortunately, this process takes time for various reasons — but not due to any lack of determination or goodwill on the government’s part.
There may be delays, but the electorate is watching closely and expects tangible results, as you rightly point out.
* The 24 ministers will be supported by junior ministers and civil service cadres. Additionally, some senior and retired civil servants, as well as private sector professionals, have been inducted. What does this signify to you? Do you see a strong determination to deliver, backed by the right expertise and resources? Or does it also reflect a failure of past governments to establish a system that nurtures and promotes the best talent organically within the administration?
There are 24 ministers, supported by junior ministers and civil servants. I wish I had the time to examine the Government programme in depth to determine how many of the various measures fall under each ministry. Some measures are specific, while others are more general in nature, requiring additional work or even a blueprint for implementation. Certain laws were already drafted during the 2005-2010 period and now simply need to be updated.
As for civil servants, their quality and competence vary, which inevitably impacts implementation. At the PMO, we have seen the government rely on retired civil servants who have the experience and ability to deliver. Similarly, just as ministers play a crucial role, younger and more dynamic civil servants should also be given opportunities. While experience is valuable, the dynamism, innovation, and fresh perspectives of younger officials are equally essential in tackling the many challenges ahead.
* The Government Programme 2025-2029 is undoubtedly comprehensive in terms of the change the current administration seeks to bring to the country. However, it may be too ambitious given the financial and human resources available. What are your thoughts on this?
Financial resources are undeniably crucial. This is why the Government’s priority is to revive the economy, combat inflation, reduce debt, and stimulate economic growth — because without robust economic growth, little can be achieved. Efficiency and innovation must therefore be at the core of all ministries and institutions. Additionally, the wastage of scarce resources, which the Director of Audit regularly highlights, should be tackled at its source.
As for human resources, there is no shortage of young and dynamic professionals in various fields, but many of them remain unknown to the government. Before turning to the diaspora, we should first tap into the talent that already exists locally. However, identifying these professionals is a challenge, as they are often outside the limited circles of ministers and government officers.
The Government should take an approach similar to the Minister of Integration, who has invited expressions of interest — not for immediate appointments, but to create a register of professionals across different fields. When expertise is needed, candidates can then go through the proper appointment process. This is one of the most effective ways to maximize existing resources while also encouraging professionals from the diaspora to apply for positions where their expertise is required.
* Viewed from a distance, do you think the apparent chemistry at the top leadership level of the government alliance is sustainable in the long term — specifically, over the course of a five-year mandate? Could it also be a do-or-die situation for the leadership of both the PTr and MMM?
It is not merely wishful thinking; I believe there are several objective and subjective factors that will contribute to a durable collaboration between the Prime Minister and his Deputy.
At their age, they have acquired the experience and maturity needed to tackle any thorny issues that may arise. People do change with age; they are no longer the same individuals they were 20 or 30 years ago. They no longer harbour the same ambitions as in their younger years, and at this stage of their lives, they are likely focused on leaving a richer legacy for the country than they have in the past.
The formation of L’Alliance du Changement itself was a significant step in halting the country’s downward spiral, and the changes to come will help further consolidate our democracy and liberty. This represents their greatest achievement in the 21st century, and I do not foresee them wrecking this legacy. Despite their flaws, they remain steadfast in their belief in democracy and liberty.Read More… Become a Subscriber
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 31 January 2025
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