Shakeel Mohamed, Acting PM: "Confidence is an immense responsibility"

Over a steaming cup of coffee, in an atmosphere both modest and steeped in history, Shakeel Mohamed, the Acting Prime Minister in the absence of Dr. Navin Ramgoolam, who is currently on a five-day mission in Congo, granted us an interview. For nearly 45 minutes, the youngest Acting Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius opened up to us.

What has struck you the most during these few days at the helm of the country?
Since taking on this role, I have become even more acutely aware of the magnitude of the challenges facing our nation. Making decisions on behalf of a country is never taken lightly. What has profoundly impacted me is the spirit of cooperation and support from my fellow ministers, especially during the Cabinet meetings. I have also been touched by the trust placed in me by Prime Minister Dr. Navin Ramgoolam to step in during his absence. Messages of encouragement have poured in, and I have felt a sincere, almost collective confidence. I also want to commend the remarkable work of the teams at the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Housing and Lands, the police force, my advisors, and all those who contribute behind the scenes.

What does the symbolism of the Acting Prime Minister position represent for you?
It is primarily a matter of respect: respect for institutions, democracy, and hierarchy. This position does not belong to an individual; it belongs to the people. We are here to serve with humility and responsibility.

Did you ever envision becoming Prime Minister one day?
No, never. I have never geared my career towards that goal. I come from a family of lawyers—my father, my brother, and then me. I have always sought to work diligently to earn each step along the way. In politics, I have progressed gradually: as a deputy, a minister, and then leader of the opposition. Each role has taught me patience, listening, and a sense of state. When I assumed this interim responsibility, I felt I was stepping into an institutional continuity that surpasses individual careers, a moment that calls for restraint, clarity, and responsibility.

How was your meeting with the President of the Republic, Dharam Gokhool?
It was a very enriching exchange with the President. We discussed various national interest topics, as well as the importance of continuing to learn and deepen our understanding of issues.

Do you wish to become Prime Minister one day?
I do not harbor that ambition. I deeply believe that everyone has a role to play, and responsibilities come with time and circumstances. For me, the most important thing is to serve sincerely wherever I am called to be.

What are your days like as the head of government?
They are intense. Time is limited, but the responsibilities are considerable. I have notably met with the Police Commissioner. Issues related to drugs, domestic violence, and abuse are concerning realities that require constant mobilization. Maintaining order and security does not solely rest on the government or the police. It is a shared responsibility. Every citizen has a role to play in building a safer and more respectful society.

What will you say to the Prime Minister upon his return?
With humor, I will say to him: "Thank you very much… you may now take it back." (laughs) More seriously, I am deeply grateful for the trust he has placed in me, a trust I will never forget.

Has your sleep changed?
Let’s just say it has become lighter. The mind remains in a state of alertness. Responsibilities do not cease at the end of the day.

What was the first thing you did upon becoming Acting Prime Minister?
I started my day by visiting the cemetery in Bois-Marchand to pay my respects at the graves of my father, the late Yusuf Mohamed, my grandfather, the late Sir Abdool Razack Mohamed, and my grandmother. I asked them to give me the strength, wisdom, and foresight needed to carry out this responsibility with dignity, humility, and integrity. And I visited my mother in Quatre-Bornes.

How did your family react to this moment?
With a lot of emotion. My children were happy and proud. There were also lighter moments, especially their excitement when they saw the police escorts, which amused them greatly. I want to express my gratitude to my wife for her constant support and dedication to our family. She has always been a pillar. As for my mother, she was deeply moved. She likely reflected on the journey of her father-in-law, the late Sir Abdool Razack Mohamed, who served as Acting Prime Minister in March and April 1975 and January 1976.

Who was the first person to call you 'Prime Minister'?
(Gavin Glover), with a big laugh. When he called me that, I almost looked behind me… as if it couldn’t possibly be me. Then I realized the reality of the moment. In short, it’s an experience that transforms you internally.

A burger in Bagatelle with his children
On Wednesday, his children visited him. Off to Bagatelle: a shared burger, some shopping… A simple but essential moment, far from protocol.

Are you happy?
Just after arriving in Brazzaville, Dr. Navin Ramgoolam called him: "Are you okay? Are you happy? How is it going as Acting Prime Minister?". "He is very attentive and caring. He trusts me and lets me make the necessary decisions in the country’s interest," emphasizes Shakeel Mohamed.