Bérenger Discusses 'Tough Decisions' After March 12
Title: Bérenger Discusses 'Tough Decisions' After March 12
Content: Paul Bérenger, the Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), held a press conference following the party's central committee meeting on Saturday, March 7. His voice was filled with frustration as he addressed the very serious economic situation, dysfunctions at the Tourism Authority, and uncertainties at the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). He did not shy away from making his concerns known, implying that he would soon make 'tough decisions' following the national celebrations on March 12.
Bérenger opened his remarks by discussing the international situation, sounding an alarm about the impacts of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on global economic conditions. He warned that this poses a direct threat to Mauritius's public finances, particularly concerning the expected ten billion rupees from the upcoming budget. He pointed out two specific risks: a potential downgrade from Moody's in what he described as a 'very serious' economic context, and a risk of being placed on a blacklist by the Financial Action Task Force and the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group, which could have dire consequences for Mauritius's open economy.
"I’m eating my own neck... but enough is enough," he declared, expressing deep irritation over certain decisions made within the ruling coalition, although he refrained from naming names.
He imposed a limit on political upheaval before March 12, as the President of Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, is scheduled to visit Mauritius during the national celebrations. Bérenger stated, "So, after March 12 there will be difficult decisions to make, and I have a lot to say that I cannot share because I am in government."
On the Chagos issue, Bérenger sought to clarify what he believes to be a misunderstanding by British conservatives regarding the Mauritian Prime Minister's statements about exploring 'legal avenues.' He emphasized that Mauritius is considering further consultation with the International Court of Justice or the Law of the Sea Tribunal but clarified that they are not pursuing legal action against the UK.
However, progress on this issue remains slow. Although an agreement recognizing Mauritian sovereignty over the archipelago has been reached, ratification by the House of Lords is still pending, causing concern within the government.
Bérenger also addressed various other pressing issues, describing the port situation as a matter of 'life or death,' indicating that several recommendations have been approved and consultations will soon be initiated. He mentioned that discussions about electoral reform are underway, and changes are expected in the fight against drug trafficking.
The management of the Mauritius Tourism Authority (MTA) received the harshest criticism from Bérenger, who labeled the situation a 'mess' while targeting Tourism Minister Richard Duval. Initially, four individuals were set to be removed from their positions; however, the Prime Minister reportedly decided to retract three of the dismissal letters, except for that of José Arunasalom, whose suspension raised questions due to allegations of harassment. Bérenger noted that this was a mere 'precautionary measure' pending an investigation's conclusions.
"The appointments made by the Tourism Minister are questionable. How can four people be suspended only to be reinstated without addressing the position of the MTA president?" he asked, revealing that he had alerted Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam about the matter.
Bérenger also reiterated his concerns about a 'gang' surrounding the Prime Minister's office, expressing a desire to prevent the situation from escalating further without elaborating, consistent with his intention to wait until after the national celebrations.
The MMM’s political bureau will meet on March 16 to determine the party's stance, with Bérenger concluding, "Whatever happens, we will be in Parliament."
