Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sarah Jane Lebrasse
Published on 2024-03-10 14:00:34
Rezistans ek Alternativ (ReA) held a press conference in Moka yesterday, where its spokesperson Ashok Subron extensively discussed the role of the Mauritian state and the MSM government in ensuring the safety of Mauritian citizens. The party reflected on the Arsenal tragedy that led to the death of six young people, as well as the floods in Port-Louis on January 15 that claimed the lives of two workers.
“There is an abdication of responsibility by the state and the MSM government,” stated Ashok Subron. “Today’s press conference is important to address the tragedies that the country has experienced since the beginning of the year. Now is not the time for easy criticism or blame game, but for self-criticism by all political parties including ReA, the country, and religious organizations.”
For ReA, if such self-criticism is not undertaken, “the tragedies will be even more severe.” Ashok Subron recalled the events of January 15 in the capital, which resulted in the deaths of 2 private sector employees, the incident on March 4 where 6 young people died during their pilgrimage to Grand-Bassin, and the confusion on March 5 when authorities issued a late statement saying there was no school. “The State is responsible for public safety, but it has abdicated its responsibility to ensure public safety and left it to others to do it on its behalf.”
ReA also regrets that the State did not take the necessary corrective actions after last year’s accident at Mare Longue. “What we see is that it was only last January that the Task Force chaired by the Prime Minister issued guidelines. The Task Force members must take responsibility, and their decision or indecision resulted in the death of these young people.” ReA also denounced the conflictual relationship between the State and cultural associations. “In hindsight, we need to reflect and consider if certain things should continue in the same manner. There has been instrumentalization of religion by the State in recent years,” said Ashok Subron.
He also lamented the lack of temporary constitutional amendments regarding the obligation to disclose one’s religious affiliation in the aftermath of the upcoming elections. He also reminded that the open citizen conversation will take place on Saturday, March 16 in Beau-Bassin.
Read the original article(French) on Le Mauricien
