Demanding accountability and independence of state institutions in Mauritius
The Issue
To: The political leaders of all 73 parties and alliances running at the 2024 general elections
Mauritian democracy is at its weakest since independence. The erosion of institutional independence has compromised key state bodies. ICAC and its replacement, the FCC is toothless against government corruption, MBC continues to function solely as a government mouthpiece, the police serve political interests instead of the public and the people and its press remain in the dark regarding government action.
We urge the next government to commit to the following reforms within 18 months of forming government after the general elections of November 2024:
1. Establish a Fully Independent Anti-Corruption Agency
That ICAC/FCC, or any new anti-corruption agency, be made fully independent, modelled after successful global examples like the New South Wales ICAC. A multi-partisan oversight committee should be created to ensure its impartiality and effectiveness.
2. Ensure MBC’s Editorial and Operational Independence
Make the MBC independent of political influence, similar to trusted broadcasters like the BBC. A Public Broadcasting Ombudsman should be established to handle complaints and ensure neutrality. These changes should be constitutionally protected, or legislated where necessary.
3. Ensure the Independence of the Police Commissioner
Make the Police Commissioner operationally independent of political control, with accountability through appropriate ministerial and parliamentary mechanisms.
Additionally, introduce community policing models like Kenya’s Nyumba Kumi Initiative, which fosters cooperation between police and local communities.
4. Enact Freedom of Information Law
Pass robust Freedom of Information (FOI) law to ensure greater transparency and accountability. FOI will empower citizens by providing access to government information, following global best practices such as India’s Right to Information Act.
Why This Matters:
Independent institutions are essential for a functioning democracy. These reforms will ensure that Mauritian institutions serve the public, not political interests. Sign this petition today to demand accountability and independence in our government, and help restore trust in Mauritius’ democracy.
Share with every Mauritian voting at the next election
275
The Issue
To: The political leaders of all 73 parties and alliances running at the 2024 general elections
Mauritian democracy is at its weakest since independence. The erosion of institutional independence has compromised key state bodies. ICAC and its replacement, the FCC is toothless against government corruption, MBC continues to function solely as a government mouthpiece, the police serve political interests instead of the public and the people and its press remain in the dark regarding government action.
We urge the next government to commit to the following reforms within 18 months of forming government after the general elections of November 2024:
1. Establish a Fully Independent Anti-Corruption Agency
That ICAC/FCC, or any new anti-corruption agency, be made fully independent, modelled after successful global examples like the New South Wales ICAC. A multi-partisan oversight committee should be created to ensure its impartiality and effectiveness.
2. Ensure MBC’s Editorial and Operational Independence
Make the MBC independent of political influence, similar to trusted broadcasters like the BBC. A Public Broadcasting Ombudsman should be established to handle complaints and ensure neutrality. These changes should be constitutionally protected, or legislated where necessary.
3. Ensure the Independence of the Police Commissioner
Make the Police Commissioner operationally independent of political control, with accountability through appropriate ministerial and parliamentary mechanisms.
Additionally, introduce community policing models like Kenya’s Nyumba Kumi Initiative, which fosters cooperation between police and local communities.
4. Enact Freedom of Information Law
Pass robust Freedom of Information (FOI) law to ensure greater transparency and accountability. FOI will empower citizens by providing access to government information, following global best practices such as India’s Right to Information Act.
Why This Matters:
Independent institutions are essential for a functioning democracy. These reforms will ensure that Mauritian institutions serve the public, not political interests. Sign this petition today to demand accountability and independence in our government, and help restore trust in Mauritius’ democracy.
Share with every Mauritian voting at the next election
The Decision Makers
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 13 October 2024