Jugnauth Calls Phone-Tapping Inquiry 'Clear Political Manipulation'

Former Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has come out strongly against the ongoing inquiry into phone-tapping equipment, branding it a deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion for political ends.

Speaking to reporters, Jugnauth described the investigation as "a clear attempt at political manipulation," signalling that he views the probe as targeting him and his allies rather than serving any genuine public interest.

The inquiry centres on surveillance and wiretapping equipment acquired during a period when Jugnauth led the government. Investigators are examining how the equipment was procured, how it was used, and by whom it was authorised. Wiretapping, or the interception of private communications without consent, is a sensitive issue in Mauritius, where concerns about state surveillance have long featured in political debate.

Jugnauth, who led the country as Prime Minister from 2017 until his election defeat in November 2024, heads the Militant Socialist Movement, known by its French acronym MSM. Since losing power, he and several figures from his former administration have faced a series of investigations launched under the new government of Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam.

The former premier's pushback reflects a wider pattern of tension between the current government and opposition figures from the MSM camp, with each side accusing the other of using state institutions for political purposes.

Jugnauth did not address the substance of the allegations in detail but made clear he considers the inquiry illegitimate. His comments are likely to sharpen the political debate around how the new administration is deploying investigative bodies such as the Financial Crimes Commission and police units.

What this means: Mauritius has seen a sharp rise in high-profile investigations since the change of government in late 2024. Opposition figures argue these probes are selective and politically driven, while the government maintains they represent a genuine effort to restore accountability. The phone-tapping inquiry is among the most politically charged, given that surveillance capabilities touch directly on questions of civil liberties, abuse of power, and the independence of security services. How the inquiry proceeds will be watched closely both locally and by international observers monitoring Mauritius's democratic institutions.

Source: Le Defi Media