Mauritian Creole in Parliament: Dr. Jonathan Ravat Calls to Overcome Fears

Dr. Jonathan Ravat expressed surprise at the opposition from Arya Sabha Mauritius (ASM) and the Mauritius Sanatan Dharma Temples Federation (MSDTF) to the introduction of Mauritian Creole (KM) in Parliament. He emphasizes the need to support the reform without hindering what he considers an inevitable process.

"Shocked" was Dr. Ravat's initial reaction to the statements from ASM and MSDTF. He did not expect such a position given that the process of introducing KM into Parliament is well underway. "I did not expect opposition of this nature at this stage," he stated.

In its statement, ASM highlighted the importance of maintaining institutional coherence. It argues that the current linguistic framework ensures clarity and uniformity in parliamentary debates and official documents. The organization warns of potential ambiguities and uncertainties in law interpretation if multiple languages are used, and raises concerns about fragmentation, suggesting that adding another language could lead to similar demands for other languages, with structural and operational implications. Practical constraints, including translation, transcription, and interpretation issues, were also mentioned.

On its part, MSDTF views this as more than a cultural adjustment; it sees it as a fundamental change with constitutional, legal, and institutional implications. It points out that English is the official language of the National Assembly, with French also permitted, which it believes guarantees clarity and legal security. The organization warns of the risks of divergent interpretations, inconsistencies in official documents, and judicial disputes, while expressing concern about the selective nature of the proposal.

The publication of these statements on Thursday, April 16, piqued Dr. Ravat's interest. He finds their timing "curious," especially in the context of the political landscape marked by Paul Bérenger's resignation as Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the MMM. These responses followed a question from MP Joanna Bérenger to Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam on April 14 regarding the introduction of KM.

In response, Navin Ramgoolam indicated that "consultative meetings" resulted in a report received on March 12, 2026. "The report proposes a structured roadmap. We must now proceed accordingly. The report will first need to be submitted to the Council of Ministers," he explained, noting this has not yet been done. He also mentioned the establishment of a Select Committee, which is expected to submit a report within three months to avoid any delays. He highlighted the practical obstacles identified in the steering committee's report, related to legal, procedural, technical, and institutional conditions.

However, the Prime Minister asserted that these obstacles "are not insurmountable and should not cause delays," justifying the three-month timeframe. He added, during his remarks on The Anti-Money Laundering, Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Countering Proliferation Financing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, that he hopes KM will be used in Parliament sooner, as many people do not understand the current proceedings, and he expressed himself in Mauritian Creole regarding financial malpractices under the previous government.

Following the two statements, Dr. Ravat emphasizes the importance of democratic debate. Quoting Voltaire, he states: "I disagree with you, but I will fight to the death for your right to express yourself." He respects the positions of ASM and MSDTF: "I have respect for both institutions within the Mauritian public and republican space."

However, he disagrees with their stance, describing it as "confusing." He notes that research shows KM is spoken by a large majority of Mauritians, whether as a native language or used daily. "Even those who do not have KM as their mother tongue still have it close at hand," he claims, citing its usage by 90 to 95% of the population.

The anthropologist believes that KM transcends community affiliations. "Mauritian Creole has become a glue of the Republic," he says, rejecting the notion that it belongs to a specific community. "Today, to claim that KM belongs to the Creoles is not true," he insists.

He acknowledges that its introduction into Parliament will lead to changes. "This will disrupt a certain order," he admits while emphasizing the country’s adaptability: "Nothing is set in stone." He believes these developments are necessary, even if they require adjustments, particularly for the Hansard.

Dr. Ravat agrees with the two organizations on the need for rigorous regulation. "This should imply that there is an appropriate linguistic and legal framework," he states, stressing the challenges related to translation. "It is often said that translating is somewhat betraying," he recalls, calling for adequate means to support the reform.

For him, these precautions should not hinder the process. The introduction of KM would bring the National Assembly closer to the people. "It will bring us closer and contribute to further democratizing politics," he asserts. Referring to the reactions provoked by the project, he finds them understandable given the legacy of "British multiculturalism." He calls for transcending these divides through guarantees based on law rather than emotion. "One does not govern a country based on emotion," he insists.

Regarding the potential introduction of other languages, such as Bhojpuri, he warns against "knee-jerk reactions." "We must not fall into the trap of saying, 'if we introduce KM, we must introduce Bhojpuri,'" he states, advocating for an approach based on scientific research and a legal framework.

Speaker Praises Prime Minister's "Clear" Position

When asked about these statements, Speaker Shirin Aumeeruddy-Cziffra indicated that she would refrain from commenting. However, she expressed satisfaction with Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam's "clear and precise" response regarding the introduction of Mauritian Creole in Parliament. She also emphasized that he repeatedly referenced the final report she provided to him on March 12, titled "As one people, as one nation." "I am very pleased with the PM's attitude, especially as he sought to establish a Select Committee and that the issue of introducing KM in Parliament should be resolved within three months," she stated.

The Speaker reiterated her hope that KM would be introduced in Parliament before the end of the year. "We live in a free country. Personally, I am in favor of freedom of expression. I take note of everything said. Everyone is free to express their opinion," she added.