Mauritius has enforced a social media ban, blocking access to all platforms until November 11, a day after its general election. This decision comes in the wake of a wiretapping controversy that has generated significant political and public turmoil. Government officials have stated that this restriction is essential to maintaining national security and public integrity after a series of leaked audio recordings surfaced online, revealing discussions involving politicians, diplomats, and high-profile figures.
The controversy began when more than 20 audio recordings started circulating on platforms, particularly on TikTok, since mid-October. The tapes reportedly contained sensitive conversations implicating members of Mauritius’s political and civil spheres, including law enforcement, attorneys, media figures, and foreign diplomats. In one notable leak, the British High Commissioner Charlotte Pierre was reportedly heard in private calls, while another recording included a conversation between the police commissioner and a forensic doctor, in which they discussed altering a report on a police custody death.
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth’s office has emphasized that the action is intended to address security risks arising from these “illegal postings,” as officials meet to assess and mitigate the perceived threats. In line with this directive, Mauritius’s communications regulatory authority mandated that all internet providers restrict social media access. One telecom provider, EMTEL, confirmed its compliance with the government’s order, cautioning that users would experience disruptions in their internet usage.
However, opposition leaders in Mauritius argue that the timing of this decision suggests a political strategy to stave off a likely defeat for the incumbent government in the upcoming election. Alliance for Change leader Navin Ramgoolam, the prime minister’s primary competitor, accused Jugnauth’s administration of attempting to secure another term and maintain its parliamentary majority by suppressing social media. Members of the opposition coalition are considering both legal and political responses to contest the social media restrictions, asserting that the ban disproportionately hinders media entities, political organizations, and citizens who depend on social platforms for information and communication.
The arrest of former Mauritius Telecom CEO Sherry Singh and three other individuals later on the same day further intensified the situation. They were detained as part of an investigation related to the leaks, though specific charges have not been disclosed. According to analysts, this wiretapping scandal is likely to significantly impact voter sentiment and influence the outcome of the election. Political experts suggest that the leaks have amplified concerns over unresolved issues and alleged corruption, adding fuel to public dissatisfaction with the current administration.
