PORT LOUIS, Mauritius (BG) – The Labour-led Alliance of Change has claimed a sweeping victory in Mauritius, putting veteran politician Navin Ramgoolam back in office for a third term as prime minister.

Ramgoolam, 77, who leads the Labour Party and hails from a prominent political family, previously held the prime minister role from 1995 to 2000 and again from 2005 to 2014.

His father, Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, is revered as Mauritius’s founding leader and first head of government after its independence in 1968.

During his campaign, Ramgoolam criticized the current administration, alleging that a “mafia” group had taken control of Mauritian institutions. He contended that this elite acted in their own interests, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis faced by many citizens.

His platform of economic reform, democracy restoration, and anti-corruption resonated with voters eager for stability and change.

After a decade away from leadership, Ramgoolam’s return represents a significant comeback. L’Express, a major Mauritian newspaper, described his win as “a lesson in perseverance and resilience” aimed at uniting a politically and economically divided nation.

Ramgoolam’s career has not been without controversy. Initially a doctor, he shifted to law in the 1990s and took over as Labour Party leader. His tenure saw challenges, including defeat in 2014 and 2019. Post-2014, he faced charges of conspiracy and money laundering, though he has never been convicted and called the accusations “politics of revenge.”

Ramgoolam’s return brings renewed focus on restoring democracy, reducing living costs, and addressing urgent social issues in Mauritius.