Mauritius has ordered all internet service providers to suspend access to social media platforms until November 11, a day after the upcoming general election, as the nation grapples with a wiretapping scandal. The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (ICTA) announced the temporary ban on Friday, citing the need to curb ‘illegal postings’ related to sensitive leaked audio recordings.
The restriction follows a series of leaked conversations involving high-profile figures such as politicians, police officials, lawyers, journalists, and civil society members. Reporters Without Borders, a media watchdog, reported that around 20 conversations have surfaced on social media since mid-October, heightening public concern and political tension.
Government justifies ban amid national security concerns
The office of Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth defended the social media suspension, stating that the measure was necessary to safeguard national security and the integrity of the election. In a statement, the Prime Minister’s office said, ‘A crisis committee is currently meeting to contain the existing risks as soon as possible.’
EMTEL, one of the three major telecommunications operators in Mauritius, confirmed it is implementing the directive, warning that ‘user experience will be progressively disrupted’ as the suspension rolls out across the island.
Election tensions amidst wiretapping controversy
Prime Minister Jugnauth, leader of the Militant Socialist Movement (MSM), seeks to secure his party’s parliamentary majority in the upcoming election on 10 November, aiming for another five-year term. However, the wiretapping scandal has cast a shadow over the campaign, with the leaked audio files reportedly revealing private exchanges and raising concerns over surveillance practices in the country.
Jugnauth and police officials have previously claimed that the audio clips circulating online had been manipulated using artificial intelligence. This marks the second time Jugnauth has faced election-related controversy; last year, a British court upheld his 2019 election victory against opposition claims of bribery and undue influence.
Public and international reactions
The temporary social media blackout has drawn criticism from local activists and international observers, who argue it impinges on freedom of speech. The ICTA’s decision is being closely watched as Mauritius navigates both a contentious election and an unfolding scandal.
Credit: Africabriefing
