Almost two years after the November 10, 2024 general elections in Mauritius, investigations into alleged electoral expenditure irregularities remain ongoing. According to a written response from Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam to a question from Deputy Joe Lesjongard, the Central Criminal Investigation Department (CCID) is still probing the matter. The investigations focus on seven lawmakers: Raj Pentiah, Nitin Prayag, Kaviraj Sukon, Kevin Lukeeram, Véronique Leu-Govind, Richard Duval, and Roxana Collet.
The seven lawmakers were cited in eight complaints filed in February 2025, and their cases are being handled by the CCID. The police have collected depositions from complainants and heard from a representative of the Electoral Commissioner’s office and other individuals. The Electoral Commissioner’s office has provided the police with the necessary information. The investigations are centered on alleged expenditure irregularities during the 2024 legislative elections.
Nine individuals have reportedly sought relief from the Supreme Court under Section 74B of the Representation of the People Act. This section allows a candidate or their agent to apply for an exemption if the alleged irregularity resulted from inadvertence or reasonable cause, without malice. However, this judicial process does not constitute proof of innocence or a decision on the police investigations.
Despite the ongoing investigations, there is limited publicly available information on the status of the nine applications to the Supreme Court. It is unclear how many applications have been examined, their current state, or any decisions made. The public is still awaiting answers on the progress of these applications and the outcome of the CCID investigations.
The CCID’s investigations are focused on determining whether the seven lawmakers exceeded their electoral expenditure limits. The police have been gathering evidence and hearing from witnesses. Once the investigations are complete, the findings will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The DPP will then decide whether to press charges or drop the cases.
The delay in completing the investigations and the uncertainty surrounding the Supreme Court applications have raised concerns about the electoral process in Mauritius. The 2024 general elections were closely watched, and any irregularities could undermine public trust in the democratic process. The government has assured the public that the investigations are being conducted thoroughly and impartially.
The outcome of the investigations and the Supreme Court applications will be crucial in determining the accountability of the candidates and the integrity of the electoral process. The public is eagerly awaiting the conclusions of the CCID investigations and the decisions of the DPP and the Supreme Court. The cases highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in Mauritius’ electoral process.
Key points
- Seven lawmakers are under investigation for alleged electoral expenditure irregularities.
- Nine individuals have sought relief from the Supreme Court under Section 74B of the Representation of the People Act.
- The investigations and Supreme Court applications are ongoing, with the public awaiting the outcome.
