Mauritius is now the latest victim of a government-mandated internet block as the country’s communications regulator ordered that all ISPs suspend access to all platforms today on Friday till November 11. This is a day after the country’s upcoming general election that is set to kick off on November 10.

This order was reportedly made as a response to a wiretapping scandal that has had 20 conversations involving government officials, police and journalists among others leaked on social media. As reported by Reporters Without Borders, the ICT authority stated that the ban is in response to “illegal postings”.

This scandal, according to the government, has exposed the country and its people to a national security risk.

As expected this situation has sparked alot of conversation on social media from not just Mauritians but also the international committee especially those from the countries that can relate to similar scenarios. Many are questioning how this is okay and rightfully so as it can be seen as a violation of the citizen’s rights to have access to their platforms for communication and self-expression.

Mauritius is going to the polls in 10 days – 10 November. The democratic landscape has really deteriorated with civil and political liberties/ rights severely attacked. Social media sites – facebook, TikTok, you tube and others have been closed down until after the elections.

— Wanjiru Nguhí 🌻🍉✊🏾🇰🇪🇨🇩 (@msnguhi) November 1, 2024

so mauritius decided to suspend social media for 11 days FOR THE WHOLE ISLAND bc of a “wiretapping scandal”

never have i ever in my life expected a parliamentary republic with “full democracy” could do this

How is this globally okay? Bc of national security for 11 days bc of…

— Beba ━★ (@Web3Wand) November 1, 2024

As it stands, those in the island nation are forced to use VPNs to access social media sites. However, there are concerns that access through VPNs could also end up being blocked later on.

@elonmusk Dear Elon Musk, I urge your help. I am using a VP. We are suffering a massive crisis in Mauritius where the government have blocked social media due to corruption in the up and coming elections. Please please please help. Please contact me Kesh.mun@gmail.com

— Kesh (@Kesh300) November 1, 2024

For real mauritius you’re joking

Luckily we have a vpn but if they ban that too we’re gonna have to leave https://t.co/xOo1Igerv9

— Cryptowrit3r.x ✍🏽 (@Cryptowrit3r) November 1, 2024

As reported by Reuters, this is feared to be part of Mauritius’ incumbent prime minister, Privand Jugnauth to forcefully extend his term to another five years. In fact, it has been reported that Jugnauth is expected to hold onto his Militant Socialist Movement (MSM) party’s majority in parliament and give himself another five-year term in office. So it’s fair to say that all is not well with the country’s democracy right now.

In a democracy, free access to information and open communication are fundamental rights. The recent social media ban in Mauritius undermines these values, silencing voices and limiting expression. Let’s stand up for the freedoms we deserve. #Mauritius #FreedomOfSpeech #BLD

— Shaqib Lallmamode (@shaqib1402) November 1, 2024

Privand Jugnauth first became prime minister of Mauritius in 2017 taking over from his father who stepped down from office. However, his time as the country’s leader has faced alot of challenge from the opposition with tensions rising during the 2019 elections after which his victory was challenged in a British court last year. Jugnauth was accused of having obtained his post through bribery and undue influence. The incumbent was victorious in this court case after the victory was upheld.

The situation can only be observed for now as we look to see how the citizens respond to the order in the days leading to the general election.