Anabelle Savabaddy: "I am against any attempt to remove the Best Loser"
Anabelle Savabaddy speaks with conviction. The red backbencher directly addresses the promised electoral reform and takes a firm stance on the Best Loser System (BLS).
The Prime Minister has stated that his government will move forward with electoral reform that includes a degree of proportionality. Finally?
Yes, this is an electoral commitment. There is a strong desire to modernize the electoral process so that the assembly finally reflects the will of the people. It is very courageous to tackle this issue head-on, especially when we have a significant majority in the National Assembly.
I am pleased to see that the Cabinet's statement announces a broad consultation with civil society and members of the public regarding electoral reform to hear all proposals. This is a complex exercise that requires much discernment and wisdom. But it is clear that we have an appointment with history.
Should the Best Loser System (BLS) be maintained in the upcoming reform to reassure minorities?
The BLS has served all communities since its introduction. Let’s not forget Tanguvel Narrainen (1967), Paul Bérenger (1983), Motee Ramdass and Ravi Yerrigadoo (2000), or Alain Wong (2014). Therefore, for me, the BLS has benefited the country, particularly in maintaining the representation of multicultural Mauritius. The system has greatly contributed to the peace and social stability that has made our political, economic, and democratic success possible.
I am against any attempt to remove the Best Loser, a constitutional guarantee that has proven its worth. I believe everyone should be free to vote according to their conscience on this matter.
In Parliament, Adrien Duval faces the ire of government members alone. He speaks of the tyranny of numbers...
There was a heated exchange between MP Adrien Duval and Minister Shakeel Mohamed during the last parliamentary session. The government's number three made amends by acknowledging his mistakes and apologized, like a gentleman. This was not the case under the previous "Loud Speaker".
Parliament has regained its dignity. The life of an MP is not a smooth journey. My colleague Stéphanie Anquetil had to insist on asking a question of national importance this week, in which I participated. Things have changed. It is up to all of us to act more responsibly to set a good example for future generations.
It is clear that we have an appointment with history.
Some claim that majority MPs struggle to connect with the ground due to the alleged poor performance of the government. Do you share this view?
I don't know what you are talking about. Since my election, I have been visiting the most challenging neighborhoods: Ti-Rodrig, Karo Kalyptis, or even Singamanie, recently alongside Minister Shakeel Mohamed to alleviate the suffering of the people. Each place has its specific problems.
I am also present in Vallée-des-Prêtres, Montagne-Longue, Notre Dame, Crève-Cœur, Congomah, Terre-Rouge, Les Mariannes, and other regions of my constituency. I receive a warm welcome there. My constituents have been hurt for about ten years by the mismanagement of the previous regime.
I am at the bedside of my constituency. Sorry to those who do not see it or pretend not to.
The campaign against violence towards women has been launched. What does this inspire in you as a woman and mother?
It has not been launched. It has always existed. Especially in the hearts of those who suffer. Today, it is given more visibility. This is a good thing. But this fight cannot and must not stop during a campaign. It can only happen when the cameras are focused on it. I commend the authorities, both at the parliamentary level and at the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, for this awareness. I hope it becomes a permanent struggle.