No resignation for now: time to "digest" before the final decision

At the end of the central committee meeting of the Mouvement Militant Mauricien (MMM) held on Wednesday, March 18, Paul Bérenger stated that he will not resign from the government for the time being, while acknowledging significant divergences within his party.

"I have noted that a very large majority of the militants want the MMM to remain in government. I personally wish to leave the government. The MMM Political Bureau will meet again this Monday. Until then, we will see how the situation evolves," he explained to justify his position.

Reflecting on the recent journey of the MMM within the Alliance of Change, the leader of the Mauves defended his party's political record, emphasizing the primary objectives achieved. "I will reiterate what I have said, whatever happens, we have reasons to be proud," he asserted, recalling that "for us, the priority was to remove MSM which had become a hindrance."

However, it is primarily the question of the MMM's continued presence in government that dominated the discussions. According to Paul Bérenger, a clear trend has emerged: "Today, we have seen that a large majority of militants want the MMM to remain in government."

The MMM leader emphasized that this majority shares his criticisms: "The majority agrees with my criticisms regarding what is not functioning and what needs improvement." Despite this, the desire to remain within the executive persists.

Paul Bérenger clarified that there is a clear distinction between the party's position and his personal situation: "MMM remains in the government, and me staying as Vice-Prime Minister is another issue," he insisted, referencing two separate decisions.

He also mentioned the greater interest of the country, particularly the necessity to "prevent MSM from raising its head again."

Despite what he considers strong arguments, Paul Bérenger admits he has not convinced the majority. "We did not reach the same conclusion," he acknowledged, while recognizing the dominant position in favor of remaining in government.

No definitive decision has been made yet. The Political Bureau will meet on Monday to continue discussions. Until then, members will have time to "digest what we discussed today." A delegates' assembly is not ruled out and could, if necessary, resolve the issue through a vote.

For now, Paul Bérenger remains in his position, but the internal debate within the MMM is far from over.