Priority for the Country in 2026 - Lindsay Rivière: 'The Focus Should Be on the Economy'

Following the statements made by Navin Ramgoolam on Radio Plus, invited political analysts on the show "At the Heart of the Info" provided a critical analysis. With social expectations, economic urgency, and communication deemed insufficient, the Prime Minister's speech still struggles to convince.

Ramgoolam's remarks, made on Tuesday during a Radio Plus broadcast, continue to elicit reactions. He addressed several major issues: the Pay Research Bureau (PRB) report, constitutional reforms, the fight against drugs, insecurity, and economic challenges. This was a highly anticipated intervention in a context marked by rising living costs and a population seeking concrete answers.

These statements were analyzed on Wednesday afternoon during the "At the Heart of the Info" show, hosted by Jane Lutchmaya. Three political analysts participated in the discussion: Lindsay Rivière, Jean Claude de l'Estrac, and Jérôme Boulle. While the exchanges were nuanced, one conclusion emerged: the Prime Minister's speech does not fully convince.

For Lindsay Rivière, Navin Ramgoolam's intervention is significant from a democratic perspective but remains "insufficient in terms of political communication." He asserts, "The country is stable institutionally, but the economic reality is heavy. The main weakness is convincing. The cost of living is real. There is a will, but we do not feel the urgency expected by the population. Action is needed, and the focus must be on the economy," he analyzes.

Additionally, political observer and consultant Jérôme Boulle believes the government faces a gap between its rhetoric and public expectations. A year after taking power, promises have yet to translate into daily life. "When we listen to the Prime Minister, it often seems like a party leader is speaking. Repeating the same arguments is no longer enough. Difficult decisions must now be made if we want real change," he asserts. He also emphasizes that there is a lack of momentum to kick-start government machinery.

However, the analysts acknowledge a governance approach that aims to be inclusive. Yet, this is not enough to mask certain shortcomings, especially in economic and political areas. According to Lindsay Rivière, the overwhelming electoral victory of 60-0 has created a paradoxical situation. "The government was unprepared for this victory. With the economy struggling, there is a sense of frustration. The people seem to be ahead of this government," he observes. He believes that reminding everyone there is still a five-year mandate, without announcing major restructuring, can lead to demobilization.

The question of a cabinet reshuffle emerged in the debate. For Jérôme Boulle, such a move is "necessary to ensure better functioning of the ministries." He feels that certain responsibilities need clearer definitions to respond more effectively to current challenges. Lindsay Rivière agrees and considers that a reshuffle should occur in a relatively short timeframe. "We need to place the right skills in the right positions. Appointing a full-time Minister of Finance has become essential," he insists, also mentioning the need to attract significant investments.

Discussions also touched on recent tensions within the government, particularly following Paul Bérenger's intervention with MP Stéphanie Anquetil, after a question directed at Minister Arianne Navarre-Marie regarding the management of shelters. On this episode, the analysts presented a relatively unanimous picture.

For Lindsay Rivière, the future of the government does not depend solely on the Prime Minister. "Everyone talks about a crisis, but we must not forget that the stabilizing factor in this alliance is Paul Bérenger," he asserts. He believes the authority of the Speaker has weakened following this incident. "I think she reacted poorly to the situation, and this was perceived by all observers," he adds.

On his part, Jérôme Boulle calls for more calm within the assembly. According to him, parliamentarians should "dilute their wine" to maintain a more serene atmosphere and avoid repeated suspensions. He believes that "these tensions harm the image of Parliament and divert attention from real national issues."

Jean Claude de l'Estrac, who participated by phone, offers a more moderate view of the incident. For the political observer, current mechanisms allow for better management of outbursts. "Previously, expulsions were the norm. Today, I prefer a suspension to an expulsion," he explains, believing this approach helps maintain a certain institutional balance. Economically, Jean Claude de l'Estrac reminds us that structural reforms take time. "We need new pillars of development. We also need to show some leniency. Popular decisions do not happen overnight," he emphasizes, while reminding that "the government must take its share of responsibility for reviving the productivity model." Finally, Jérôme Boulle stresses the urgency of restoring the trade balance.

According to him, "Mauritius can no longer excessively depend on imports." This challenge, he believes, must be at the center of future decisions, or it risks further destabilizing the economy.