“Trust in politics and politicians must be a national priority…

Interview: Dharambeer Gokhool, President of the Republic

…we need to commit ourselves to the emergence of a new political culture which is in sync with the expectations and values of the upcoming generations”

* ‘The new government is only a few months old. Give them time to prove that the choice the people made in November was not just another mistake’

* ‘Nation-building is always a work in progress, requiring the involvement and commitment of every citizen’

Throughout his long career as an academic, politician, and Cabinet Minister, Dharam Gokhool has been a keen observer and contributor to national discourse on governance, education, and social progress. Now serving as the President of the Republic of Mauritius, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to democratic values, transparency, and nation-building.

In this interview with Mauritius Times, President Gokhool reflects on how his perspectives have evolved over the years, the progress and challenges Mauritius faces as an independent nation, and the crucial reforms needed to strengthen democracy, foster inclusivity, and restore public trust in governance. From economic transformation to political ethics and the fight against drug proliferation, he shares his vision for the country’s future and the role of leadership in shaping a prosperous, united, and just Mauritius.

Mauritius Times: Throughout your career as an academic at the University of Mauritius, a politician, and a Cabinet Minister in previous administrations, you have consistently shared your insights on various issues impacting Mauritian society, politics, and the economy. In your current role as President of the Republic, have your perspectives evolved in any way?

Dharam Gokhool: I have been a University academic since 1975 and I retired in 2011.Thereafter,I continued as a Part-Time Faculty for several universities. Alongside, I assumed various academic positions like Dean of the Faculty at the University of Mauritius.

At that time, faculty members at the University of Mauritius were allowed to actively engage in politics, which I considered an opportunity to better connect with and serve society. My experiences varied with positions like MP in the Opposition, MP in government, Minister of Education and Minister of Industry in government, as well as Secretary-General of the Mauritius Labour Party.

The functions I assumed inevitably brought me in contact with the youth and the public at large. Right from the beginning, I took the utmost precaution in adopting highly principled positions on issues and events after careful reflection. As I progressed in my career, I always paid attention to the advice of my peers and the valuable guidance of my seniors.

I am strongly attached to such core values like integrity, honesty, responsibility, discipline, equity and inclusion. I am very allergic to any form of discrimination, and I strongly believe in the philosophy that those who have been historically marginalized should be given additional opportunities and resources so that we can have a fairer and more equitable society.

Above all, I am always guided by a deep sense of humility and attach a lot of importance to the human touch in interpersonal relations. My passion for learning has never wavered, and I remain on a continuous learning curve, always open to new ideas.

As Head of State, I approach issues from a broader perspective. Rising above party politics, I adopt global strategies to support and oversee initiatives, ensuring the participation of all stakeholders while upholding the distinction between the government and the permanence of the State.

Against this backdrop, my perspectives have continued to evolve, yet I have always strived to live in harmony with my core values, as mentioned earlier. My goal is for people to live better, happier, and more united. Overall, my outlook has progressed in a positive and optimistic direction.

* Let’s address the issue of Independence. Mauritius has since 1968 made remarkable strides in improving the living conditions of its citizens. From a sugar-dependent economy to a diversified one, encompassing sectors such as textiles, tourism, and financial services, this economic diversification has contributed to political stability and social cohesion. But debates persist on whether we have achieved our full potential. What do you think?

Since our independence in 1968, we have progressed a lot and I take this opportunity to pay my tribute to all our ancestors-descendants of slaves and indentured labourers who, through their blood, sweat and tears have contributed to the progress and prosperity of our country. We are proud of their sacrifices.

I also pay my tribute to our visionary political leaders like late Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam and his government, Sookdeo Bissoondoyal and Sir Gaëtan Duval who all took the full measure of the significance of our independence and its challenges and put their heads together to work for the welfare and well-being of our people.

We have a well-established Welfare State where Education, Health services and Public Transport are free. We have a universal old-age pension scheme. A people-oriented public sector and a vibrant public-private sector partnership. A parliamentary system of democracy with regular elections, with separation of powers between the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary and the President acting as the protector of the Constitution, the guardian of democracy, the defender of citizens’ rights, and a unifying figure for the people.Read More… Become a Subscriber

Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 7 March 2025