Mauritius has garnered attention ahead of next week’s elections following a controversial ban on social media that was lifted over the weekend. This move has drawn the island nation into a growing list of African countries that have restricted internet access in recent years.
Internet restrictions in Africa
The ban, implemented by the Information and Communications Technology Authority (ICTA) on Friday, prohibited access to all social media platforms until November 11, the day after the elections. Authorities cited ‘concerns regarding illegal postings that constitute a serious threat to national security and public safety’ as the reason for the restriction. This follows a similar ban in Mozambique, which has been enforced during post-election protests.
The ICTA’s action was backed by the Information and Communication Technologies Act of 2001, allowing the regulator to ‘take steps to regulate or curtail harmful and illegal content on the internet and other information and communication services.’
Human rights concerns and reversal
The decision faced backlash from human rights and internet freedom advocates both in Mauritius and across the region, prompting the ICTA to reverse the ban. In a statement, the authority announced, ‘ICTA hereby informs the public that, following recent developments and in consultation with relevant authorities, the temporary suspension of access to social media platforms is lifted.’
The regulator further reassured the public of its commitment to upholding national security while ensuring access to information and communication services is regulated. Felicia Anthonio, campaign manager at Access Now, welcomed the lifting of the ban as a victory for human rights, urging authorities to maintain uninterrupted internet access.
Political landscape ahead of the elections
As Mauritius heads toward elections, the ruling Militant Socialist Movement (MSM), led by incumbent Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, is set to compete against the Labour Party (LP) and the Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM). Jugnauth, who has held power since 2017, aims to secure another term for his party amidst a politically charged atmosphere.
The recent events highlight not only the delicate balance between governance and civil liberties but also the ongoing struggles for internet freedom in Africa as nations navigate the complexities of security and democratic participation.
