Night Market: For a capital that lives

Port-Louis' Night Market is back again with the same promise: to liven up the capital and provide income for vendors, but also the same concerns. Just weeks before the holidays, no decision has been made yet for the 2026 edition. The inter-ministerial committee chaired by Minister of Local Government Ranjiv Woochit met on Friday to review the matter and hear from stakeholders. Last week, the Cabinet indicated that recommendations should take into account last year's experience.

Last December, the government allowed street vendors to operate temporarily during the festive period, with defined hours and fees. Oversight measures were put in place: uniform stalls, lighting, sanitation, security, fire prevention, and post-event cleanup. The Cabinet also allowed established businesses to display products outside their shops, subject to applicable fees.

The market attracted crowds. MP Eshan Juman mentioned over 100,000 visitors and praised the activity in the capital. But established shopkeepers on Desforges Street disliked the competition from temporary vendors, claiming their sales dropped. Others pointed out issues with organization, parking, and cleanliness. The popular success did not resolve the economic and practical balance.

This year, MP Eshan Juman took the lead by announcing a market from December 12 to January 4, arguing for a better-organized edition that would benefit street businesses. He supports an initiative that has enlivened Port-Louis and created opportunities for small entrepreneurs. However, the announced dates are not yet official: the Cabinet confirmed that no final green light has been given.

Shopkeepers demand that their stores be allowed to operate without being obscured or blocked during their most important sales period. The Markazi Mosque also says it does not oppose the market but seeks guarantees to preserve the serenity of prayers, access for worshippers, and safety around the place of worship.

The inter-ministerial committee chaired by Minister Woochit must now decide after consulting all relevant parties. The middle ground could rely on last year's measures, reinforced: allow established businesses to sell in front of their premises, ensure clear access to the mosque, and manage noise, traffic, security, and cleanup.

The Markaz-e-Islam Mosque does not oppose it

The Markaz-e-Islam Mosque in Port-Louis says it does not oppose the December Night Market. In a letter dated November 5 addressed to the Lord Mayor and the Chief Executive of the Port-Louis Municipal Council, its president Aslam Vawda nonetheless requests assurance that the mosque's activities will not be disrupted.

The letter follows an article published in STAR on November 4, which the mosque administration considers "very misleading." According to them, the article does not reflect their views. "The mosque does not wish to prevent Night Market vendors from conducting their business," writes Aslam Vawda.

Worshippers expect guarantees regarding daily prayers and the facilities they use, including access to the mosque and parking for the elderly. For this reason, the mosque wants its surroundings to remain free of vendors.

The administration says it is ready to discuss practical arrangements with the municipality so that the Night Market and the mosque's activities can take place "side by side." It awaits confirmation from the municipality.