Former Prime Minister of Mauritius, Pravind Jugnauth, was questioned by the Central Criminal Investigation Department (CCID) on Thursday regarding the Moustass Leaks wiretap affair. This was his second summons, with the first being on September 1. Jugnauth's lawyers were present during the questioning at the central barracks. The investigation aims to uncover how his government acquired phone-interception gear.
The Moustass Leaks wiretap affair has been a subject of controversy, with Jugnauth previously expressing doubts about the authenticity of a recording. He distinguished the Moustass Leaks tapes from a separate clip aired at a rival congress in Grand-Bois. His lawyer, Raouf Gulbul, remained tight-lipped about the questioning, citing Section 24 of the Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Act 2021, which prohibits disclosure of information discussed during the session.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Mauritius to implement budget discipline through legislation. According to their technical assistance report, Mauritius' fiscal outcomes have weakened since the pandemic, with rising public debt and widening deficits. The IMF recommends a Fiscal Responsibility Bill to enforce budget discipline, backed by institutions. This move aims to address the country's fiscal risks and ensure prudent financial management.
In a separate incident, two officers from the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) were injured during a raid in Flacq on Wednesday. The officers were slashed with a sword by a man they were searching for, and were rushed to the hospital. This incident highlights the risks faced by law enforcement officers during drug raids and the need for adequate protection.
A delegation from the Hinduja Group and IndusInd International Holdings met with Prime Minister Ramgoolam on Thursday to discuss potential investments in Mauritius. The meeting was a courtesy call, and no specific figures or sectors were mentioned. The Hinduja Group is a well-known conglomerate, and their interest in investing in Mauritius could potentially boost the country's economy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked smoking to infertility in women and weaker sperm in men. According to their report, smoking can have a negative impact on reproductive health. In Mauritius, 3.7% of women smoke, compared to 35.3% of men. Local gynaecologist Dr. Aumeer has warned couples not to be complacent about the low smoking rates among women.
Various news and updates from around Mauritius and the world include a 12-year-old boy who died after falling from a school bus, a policewoman arrested for assaulting her husband, and taxi owners vowing to block illegal rides. Additionally, China has formally asked Mauritius for cooperation in the Li Hai affair, and an Indian tax-authority move has revived debate over the India-Mauritius treaty.
Key points
- Former Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth questioned by police over Moustass Leaks wiretap affair
- IMF urges Mauritius to implement budget discipline through legislation
- WHO links smoking to infertility in women and weaker sperm in men
