The new Mauritian ministers have taken office. Arvin Boolell, responsible for Agro-Industry and Blue Economy, plans to develop maritime resources. Véronique Leu-Govind, Junior Minister of Culture, aims to support artists. Farhad Aumeer, a Labour Party MP, will focus on the implementation of government programs.
Since being sworn in on Friday, November 22, the new ministers and junior ministers have officially assumed their responsibilities. What are the priorities and challenges for this new government? What roles will junior ministers play in this dynamic? Will backbenchers assert themselves as effective watchdogs? These questions were at the heart of the « Au Cœur de l’Info » program, broadcast on Monday, November 25, on Radio Plus.
Arvin Boolell, Senior Minister in charge of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy, and Fisheries, described his portfolio as a « mega ministry » with significant responsibilities. « The reform of the sugar and cane industry is nearly complete, but the only constant is change and innovation. Secondly, there’s the Food Bill, considering we import 77% of what we consume, costing nearly Rs 64 billion. That’s why I advocate for a policy of producing what we eat and eating what we produce. Then there’s the Ocean State, with its 2.3 million km², which I consider the jewel of the government’s policy, » he explained.
He emphasized the importance of training executives and modernizing the fishing port. « There’s also the entire aspect of research, development, and innovation. Our seas are rich and nurturing, containing rare elements not found on land. We have a lot of work to do in exploring and utilizing our maritime resources, » he added, stressing the importance of working collaboratively with allied nations.
Véronique Leu-Govind, Junior Minister for Arts and Culture, highlighted the diversity of the ministry’s responsibilities, including Speaking Unions and about 30 semi-public organizations. « I’ll support the minister and work closely with him. We’ll propose an emergency plan for artists, who have suffered greatly under the previous administration. We’ve already held an initial meeting and plan to organize a large assembly with all artists. They must be involved—there are no ‘big’ or ‘small’ artists. It’s time to give young talent a chance and bring about renewal, » she noted, advocating for transparency. « There has been significant abuse in this ministry, but we are committed to doing better now. Expectations are high, » she added.
Labour Party MP Farhad Aumeer clarified that his mission was never to become a minister but to bring Navin Ramgoolam back to power. « I am here as a government MP, whereas in 2019, I was an opposition MP, » he said. He explained that he has a busy schedule as a doctor. Regarding his role in the National Assembly, Aumeer assured that he is not one of those MPs who ask pre-arranged questions. « I will ask questions that lead to concrete answers, particularly regarding the implementation of proposed programs, such as combating drugs and managing the cost of living, » he stated. With his medical expertise, he mentioned being in contact with the Minister of Health and ready to provide assistance if needed.
Source: defimedia
