Mauritius Bans Social Media Before Elections: Then Removes Ban

In a controversial decision, Mauritius has suspended access to all social media platforms until November 11, the day following the nation’s general election. This action, implemented by the island’s communications regulator on Friday, comes in the wake of a burgeoning wiretapping scandal that has raised significant concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process.

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The suspension was announced as the opposition party raised alarms over what they perceive as a tactic by the ruling party to manipulate the electoral landscape in their favour. Critics have pointed to the government’s growing desperation, suggesting that Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth is seeking to maintain his party’s parliamentary majority amidst fears of impending electoral defeat.

Justification for the Ban

The Prime Minister’s office stated that the restrictions were necessary to safeguard national security, citing the recent emergence of various “illegal postings” and sensitive audio recordings on social media platforms. A crisis committee is reportedly convening to address the situation and mitigate potential risks to public safety.

According to EMTEL, one of Mauritius’ leading telecom operators, the government directive to block access was being enforced, warning users that their internet experience would be disrupted. Notably, social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) became inaccessible.

The scandal gained traction as approximately 20 private conversations involving high-ranking officials, law enforcement, legal experts, journalists, and members of civil society were leaked online, sparking outrage. Among the leaked audio was a recording involving the British High Commissioner to Mauritius, Charlotte Pierre, alongside allegations suggesting police interference in a death investigation related to police custody.

Political Implications

Opposition leaders, including Navin Ramgoolam, head of the Alliance for Change party, have condemned the ban as a blatant political maneuver. They assert that the government is leveraging all available means to secure its power. Ramgoolam emphasised, “The outgoing government knows quite well that it’s heading towards a defeat. As such, it is using all means to stay in power.”

Amidst calls for political accountability, members of the opposition coalition are exploring potential legal avenues to challenge the ruling party’s actions, aimed at safeguarding democratic principles.

Impact on Society and Economy

Civil society groups have raised alarms about the implications of such a ban on democracy and economic stability. In a joint statement, the Internet Governance Forum and the Internet Society cautioned that limiting access to digital platforms could harm the economy and disrupt the dissemination of critical information.

Despite the government’s claims of national security threats, experts like Mauritius-based political analyst Jocelyn Chan Low suggest that the wiretapping scandal has already profoundly influenced public opinion and could sway the election outcome. “There is a popular outcry on many alleged scandals which are still unresolved,” Chan Low remarked, emphasizing the potential fallout from the leaked conversations.

Lifting the Ban

After just 24 hours, the government reversed its decision to block social media access on Saturday, stating that the ban was lifted following consultations with relevant authorities. Prime Minister Jugnauth confirmed that investigations were ongoing and that several arrests had been made in connection to the leaks, although specific details regarding charges were not disclosed.

The swift reinstatement of social media access reflects the mounting pressure from opposition parties and local media organizations, which heavily rely on these platforms for news and communication.

As Mauritius heads into a crucial electoral period, the unfolding events serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between governance, public trust, and the safeguarding of democratic freedoms.